Students grow fresh food for sustainable school meals

By Andi Anderson

A rural school is making strides in sustainability and education through a robust farm-to-school program. By integrating gardening, food production, and hands-on learning, students experience the entire food system while enjoying fresh meals in the cafeteria.

 The program features a greenhouse, garden beds, a chicken coop, and fruit trees. Students actively participate in planting, tending, and harvesting crops such as spinach, tomatoes, and herbs. Chickens are cared for, and some students even assist with butchering, offering a full circle understanding of food production.

These activities aren’t just about food—they’re an educational tool. Students learn how food systems work, connect with nature, and gain hands-on skills. Spending time outdoors with fragrant basil, soil, and butterflies provides a sensory-rich environment that reduces stress and improves overall well-being.

Research supports these benefits. Farm-to-school programs enhance academic performance, encourage healthier eating habits, and improve self-esteem. Teachers report students feeling less anxious after gardening and even growing their food at home.

The cafeteria incorporates fresh produce into meals, including a “fresh cart” where students can enjoy unlimited fruits and vegetables during the winter. Whether it’s sunflower shoots or chive flowers, the connection between garden and plate is clear.

The program emphasizes starting small and scaling gradually. A single garden bed and a few seeds planted years ago have grown into a thriving initiative that feeds students and fosters learning. Schools and families looking to replicate this model are encouraged to begin with manageable projects aligned with their interests.

By teaching sustainability and creating a direct link between food production and consumption, farm-to-school programs not only nourish students but also provide life skills and environmental awareness, setting the foundation for healthier communities.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-lisegagne