Gilda Allen served as an Environmental Program Specialist for the District Department of the Environment (DDOE) where she tirelessly helped District schools establish school garden programs. Gilda retired in 2011, but her passion for youth gardening continues to this day.
Gilda was a pioneer in the school garden movement who laid the groundwork for school gardens in the District. The Gilda Allen Best School Garden Award recognizes students that exhibit the same passion, dedication and forward thinking as Gilda Allen.
The Gilda Allen Best School Garden Award is given out annually during Growing Healthy Schools Month. Students are challenged to write a short essay answering the question: “Why is your school garden the best school garden in the District?”