Students in Rialto now have a new outdoor space where learning, wellness, and environmental stewardship come together. San Bernardino County Fifth District Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr. joined the Rialto Unified School District, community leaders, educators, and students to celebrate the grand opening of the International Healing Garden, a 2.5-acre outdoor living classroom designed to inspire hands-on learning while promoting healing, sustainability, and climate resilience.
Located across from Kucera Middle School on West Buena Vista Avenue, the International Healing Garden will provide students with immersive educational experiences focused on environmental science, water conservation, native California plants, air quality, and climate awareness. The space also serves as a peaceful environment that supports student wellness and reflection.
The project represents a collaborative investment in the future of Rialto’s students. Supervisor Baca worked alongside Rialto Unified School District to secure $2 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding to help make the Healing Garden a reality. The project also received $1 million in State funding, secured by Senator Eloise Gómez Reyes during her service in the California State Assembly.
“This is more than a beautiful outdoor space—it’s an investment in education, wellness, and opportunity,” said Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr. “Students will have the chance to learn through hands-on experiences, connect with nature, and develop a deeper understanding of environmental stewardship that will benefit them for years to come. I am proud to have partnered with Rialto Unified School District, Congressman Pete Aguilar, and Senator Eloise Gómez Reyes to help bring this vision to life.”
The Healing Garden has been years in the making and reflects Rialto Unified School District’s commitment to expanding educational opportunities beyond the traditional classroom.
“Today, we are planting hope, cultivating healing, and creating a living classroom where every student who walks these paths will know they belong here,” said Dr. Alejandro Álvarez, Superintendent of Rialto Unified School District. “The International Healing Garden will inspire curiosity, encourage environmental responsibility, and provide students with meaningful experiences that connect learning with the world around them. We are grateful to our partners whose support made this vision possible.”
Students are already looking forward to the opportunities the new learning environment will provide.
“I’m excited because we’ll get to learn outside instead of only in a classroom,” said Owen Ayala, Rialto Unified student. “We’ll be able to see plants, learn how they grow, and understand how taking care of the environment helps our community. I think it’s going to make learning a lot more fun.”
Supervisor Baca also thanked the Rialto Unified School District Board of Education, district leadership, and staff for their dedication to creating innovative learning opportunities that will serve students for generations to come.
The International Healing Garden stands as a lasting investment in education, environmental stewardship, and student well-being—demonstrating what is possible when local, state, and federal partners work together to strengthen the communities they serve.