Learning Opportunities Abound When Students Grow Their Own Food
For many of us growing up, knowing where our food came from wasn’t something we gave much thought to. Today, with the rise in mass-produced, highly processed food that is often transported for miles before it gets to our plates, many people are looking to get back to basics.
The farm to table philosophy grew out of a desire to put food on the table that was grown locally, sustainably, and often organically. The farm to table idea has now expanded to include farm to school.
Over the past few years, the SCASD and the Agricultural (Ag) Science Program have received several grants to support the farm to school efforts, bring local food into schools, and enhance food education. This included a $26,335 grant from the Seed Change program, a $2,500 Food For All grant from the National FFA, $700 from the PA FFA Foundation, and $900 from a Farm to Table grant.
Senior Cody Harpster has been involved with Ag Science projects since he was in 9th grade. In that time, he has seen the production and marketing of several food-related products in the community. “Not many other Ag Science students have the opportunities we have taken advantage of here in our community,” said Cody.
The benefits of these programs to students are immeasurable and include:
- Teaching students where their food comes from
- Supporting local economies
- Providing experiential learning
- Giving students access to fresher, higher-quality foods
“With funds from the grant we were able to provide plants and grow houses to elementary gardens locally,” said Paul Heasley, Agricultural Science Teacher and FFA Advisor. “Our goal was to see food processing from ‘Seed to Seal’ so students can better appreciate food nutrition preservation, especially at times of abundant harvest.”
Farm to school in action
Below are a few examples of the exciting and innovative products that have resulted from Ag Science farm to school projects.
The Grow House is a children’s playhouse that provides a learning garden structure. Ag science students created a brochure to market the Grow House and they have sold them at Tractor Supply and to faculty and staff. Built by students in the Ag facility, many have also been donated to elementary school gardens.
“No-Weeds” plant mats are re-purposed cardboard mats that go around tomatoes, peppers, and other garden plants to reduce weeds, conserve soil moisture, and recycle cardboard. Students designed a brochure and plant mat tags to sell these over the past couple of years. The program won a PA Recyclers Association award.
Peachy Sweet & Raspberry Heat hot cooking sauce was the tasty result of a National FFA “Food For All” grant that helped provide funds and food items for local food agencies. Students processed, bottled, and marketed 180 bottles of their own sauce in partnership with Sweet Heat Gourmet. The proceeds from this project were donated to help local agencies such as the State College Food Bank and Meals on Wheels, among others.
Mr. Heasley says that through these programs, lasting collaborations and partnerships have been built with others in the community. Local businesses and parents see students working outside of the classroom, improving their technical and leadership skills. He hopes that for some students, this exposure will eventually lead to a career.
Going forward, Mr. Heasley would like to connect more with the Culinary Arts program, continue to promote the farm to school philosophy, and remain a resource for elementary school gardens and programs. This summer, students, PTA members, teachers, members of the PSU Student Farm Club, and other volunteers, will help tend the many gardens in the SCASD.
