By Field Kuyper

"We're not living on the Earth. We're a part of it," said Webb senior Kylie Singer, who—throughout her high school career—has participated in and helped grow environmental initiatives at The Webb School. Singer, along with several other Webb students, gathered on February 18, 2026, to question James Valencia, a guest speaker who shared a presentation on sustainability, health, and our connection to nature with The Webb School community.

Students were delighted to welcome Valencia, the founder of Radical Shoots, to Webb’s 150-acre campus for his engaging presentation on sustainable food systems and the science behind agriculture and nutrition. Valencia introduced students to the concept of microgreens – young herbs and vegetables harvested early for their flavor and nutritional density – and explained how compounds found in plants impact human health. During the presentation, students expanded their scientific vocabulary, learning new terms like flavonoids, and had the opportunity to see, touch, and taste several living plants.

Singer noted the timeliness of Valencia’s visit to Webb. This semester, her AP Environmental Science class has been studying “regenerative farming and how to work with the land.”

For sixth-grader Cora Tucker, the presentation offered a new perspective on plants and the many possibilities they hold. “I think that learning about agriculture is very important because it teaches us what is good for us and how to be healthy,” Tucker said. “It’s really cool that plants can do so many things.”

Valencia also encouraged students to envision careers in agriculture and sustainability, and to imagine future innovations, such as growing plants beyond the Earth. Sophomore Gunnar Melson—an active participant in Webb’s outdoor leadership development program known as W.I.L.D.—was excited to learn about aquaponics and hydroponics from the young entrepreneur. 

“He definitely made it very educational and brought a progressive perspective as someone who’s doing [agriculture] in the new age,” said Melson.

Lessons From the Natural World

Many Webb students celebrate special connections to nature, including sophomore Hendley Jackson, who recently delivered a moving speech reflecting on the emotional and philosophical lessons she’s learned from spending time outdoors. In her speech before faculty, parents, and peers, Jackson explained how observing nature helped her develop resilience and mindfulness. “My observations of the natural world have revealed valuable truths, and through these vital lessons, I have learned the importance of stillness, the beauty of change, and the promise of healing, which have improved the quality of my life.”

Her reflections touched on the importance of slowing down in a busy world. In a later interview, Jackson explained that nature has always been a source of calm and inspiration for her. “[It] is something that is really important to me,” she said. On campus, she often seeks quiet outdoor spaces to think or study, noting, “I really like doing my work by the trees in the Dell.”

Jackson also enjoys participating in annual grade-level retreats facilitated by the director of Webb’s W.I.L.D. program, Joe Griggs. “Those have always been so much fun! This year, they had a lake we could swim in, we went on a hike, and we did a high ropes course. We interacted on a more genuine level,” Jackson said, speaking of the relationships she strengthened with her classmates on this year’s excursion. 

Jackson also believes spending time outside can benefit students’ well-being, especially in an era of constant digital distraction. When asked how she would encourage peers to get outdoors more, she smiled and said she’d simply ask, “Hey, do you want to come on a walk with me?”

Growing Interest in Nature-Based Learning

For some students, their connection to the natural world is already shaping hobbies, projects, and potential future careers. Nature-based projects are being cultivated in Webb classrooms, where students learn about plants through direct experience.

Science Faculty Melissa Harden, whose classes include Biology and Ornithology, teaches students about plants through hands-on exploration. “Our seventh-grade science students are currently exploring the fascinating world of plants. Students will be growing their own produce and starting native plants that can later be grown in our community, including wild bergamot, black-eyed Susans, milkweed, and purple coneflowers … [and] using our new hydroponic system to learn about alternative ways to grow plants without soil.”

Across campus, these real-life opportunities to care for nature also connect students with their passions. Freshman Ava DuPuy, for example, has spent several years studying beekeeping and is excited to join the School’s new beekeeping project. This year, Honeybee Tennessee selected Webb as the recipient of its Honeybee Grant, which will provide the supplies needed for students to begin beekeeping on campus.

DuPuy’s interest in beekeeping began at just 11 years old. Soon after, she connected with mentors through the Duck River Beekeepers Association in Shelbyville, Tenn. Through her involvement in the community, DuPuy eventually discovered that other Webb students shared the same interest. “They had the same idea, so I found my people,” she said.

With the new beekeeping project set to begin on campus soon, DuPuy is enthusiastic about inviting her classmates to get involved. “I hope everyone in the Webb community will realize how important bees are and come to love the beekeeping experience.” 

Newcomers to beekeeping are already looking forward to joining. Singer envisions it “forming more of a community around these bees, like a hive of students.”

Values in Action

The ideas students heard during Valencia’s visit are not only theoretical. Webb continues to look for practical ways to connect sustainability, health, and community campus-wide.

Part of that effort includes sourcing ingredients from nearby farms whenever possible. At Webb, the Sage Dining team continues to strengthen its relationships with regional growers, incorporating locally produced vegetables and greens such as acorn squash, peppers, zucchini, and more into everyday meals in the Grace Follin Dining Hall. 

A Shared Connection

Reflecting on the natural beauty of Webb’s campus, sharing their perspectives on sustainability, and sparking interest in beekeeping among their classmates, these Middle and Upper School students offer just a few shining examples of the intersection of agriculture, sustainability, and nature at Webb. Whether growing microgreens, exploring in the woods, or caring for bees, these experiences remind students that learning reaches beyond the four walls of the classroom at Webb – from the creek, through the forest, and across the Dell. 

As these initiatives continue to grow, Webb students are discovering new and exciting ways to reduce their ecological footprint and make a difference every day. Valencia’s visit, along with Signature Programs such as W.I.L.D., and Webb’s new beekeeping initiative, reflect the broader culture of stewardship on campus. As Singer explains, “Webb is a place filled with a diversity of people and ideas. It’s time to add biodiversity.”