School gardens have intrinsic value for the students and teachers who are able to use them. However, there are other benefits to bringing a working, edible garden into the daily life of a school. These benefits have been tested and documented, and range from increased fruit and vegetable consumption (and potential for childhood obesity reduction) to increased test scores and better learning in STEM classes.
Slow Food USA has created a guide to the current academic research that summarizes findings and outcomes from working with students in school gardens. These are available here: