St. Raphael Catholic School Recognized for Pollinator Garden Project

Naperville, IL — November 5, 2025 — The Conservation Foundation, represented by Mr. Jim Kleinwachter, has recognized St. Raphael Catholic School for its outstanding work in creating an environmentally friendly and sustainable landscape on campus.

With guidance from Mr. Ron Ory, Master Naturalist with the University of Illinois Extension, and Mrs. Rebecca Prium, St. Raphael science teacher, the Class of 2027 led the establishment of a pollinator garden—an inspiring project that celebrates both stewardship of God’s creation and Illinois’ natural heritage as the “Prairie State.”

The project features a 1,000-square-foot garden filled with 5,000 native plants and 35 species of perennials, trees, and shrubs, including oak trees, arborvitae, and hydrangeas. These native species provide food and habitat for pollinators such as hummingbirds, bees, and monarch butterflies while serving as a living classroom for hands-on science and environmental education.

Students played a key role in every step of the process—clearing the site, collecting and drying seeds, and planting all the plants, including over 1,000 tulip and daffodil bulbs. Parents and volunteers assisted by digging trenches for the bulbs, demonstrating how community collaboration can bring education and conservation together.

The Knights of Columbus—Paul Neumann, Walter and Julie Berkowicz, and Nick and Jane DiGiovanni—also made significant contributions by volunteering their time and expertise, including drilling holes for plantings and supporting ongoing environmental education at the school.

“This garden is more than a science project—it’s a lesson in faith, stewardship, and community partnership,” said Mrs. Rebecca Prium. “Our students are learning that caring for creation is an act of gratitude and responsibility.”

The pollinator garden continues to grow as part of St. Raphael’s broader environmental education efforts, which also include an annual Arbor Day celebration where students distribute trees to promote care for the environment.

St. Raphael extends its gratitude to Father Chris Lankford (Pastor), Mrs. Becky Ward (Principal), Mrs. Rebecca Prium, the Knights of Columbus, and all parents and students who contributed to this meaningful initiative.

About St. Raphael Catholic School

St. Raphael Catholic School in Naperville, Illinois, provides a Christ-centered education that nurtures students spiritually, academically, socially, and emotionally. The school is committed to fostering respect for God’s creation and encouraging service, stewardship, and lifelong learning. Visit our website at st-raphaelschool.org for more information.