The official opening of the Discovery Garden at R.J. Lockhart Elementary School in Massapequa was heralded by the arrival of the Harvest Moon, a fitting welcome by Nature herself for this new outdoor classroom.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony was held Sept. 20, and attended by parents, teachers, students and school officials. After viewing a PowerPoint presentation created by Lockhart mom Johann Greene, the crowd was treated to speeches by school board representatives Chris Lupetin Perrino and Arlene Martin, Lockhart's new principal, Mrs. Semel, Assistant Principal Mrs. Sales, as well as project coordinators Donna Sullivan and Linda Schwartz.

Then, guests were escorted to the garden gate, where Assemblyman Steve Labriola presented a check in the amount of $4,000 from New York State to be used to purchase a greenhouse for the garden.

Following a drum roll by sixth-grader Louis Martucci, Mrs. Semel had the honor of cutting the ribbon to the Discovery Garden. Volunteers were on hand with refreshments and explanations of various areas of the garden. The children had the opportunity to sample their new sensory garden by smelling the mint plants, and touching the Lamb's Ear. The brave ones even tasted the basil. The biggest thrill the children experienced was seeing the pumpkins, gourds and corn that were growing in their new classroom.

The staff at Lockhart expressed their eagerness to begin bringing the learning outside. Lesson plans are already developing and many teachers acknowledge that the "road to discovery" is just beginning.

"The day would not have existed if not for the help and support of so many parents, businesses and community members, including the wonderful custodial staff at Lockhart," said Sullivan.

Back by popular demand, Lockhart School will be offering another opportunity to purchase engraved bricks, which will make up the walkways of the garden. For information or a brochure, call 799-6218.