At Woodland Heights Elementary School in Spartanburg, some 4th graders started the new school year off by harvesting sweet potatoes they had planted as 3rd graders. The school garden program allows students to have a hands on experience growing vegetables, and they also learn about plant biology and the science of nutrition, said Principal Cindy Pridgen. And the sweet potato patch isn’t the only thing growing at WHES either.
As part of the Spartanburg Healthy Schools Initiative grant program, the school was able to expand their farm-to-school program. Kindergartners have their own garden spaces inside and outside the classroom. Here’s what teacher Kelly Anderson said about what’s going on in the gardens this fall:
“We are so thankful to the Mary Black Foundation and Partners for Active Living for their role in the Mary Black Healthy Schools Initiative! With grant funds, we were able to extend our school garden on the Kindergarten playground, as well purchase a fabulous hydroponic indoor garden. The kindergarten classes have planted seedlings that we will transplant in the next month for a fall harvest. We have planted carrots, kale, lettuce, spinach, and herbs in our outdoor garden. Inside we have cauliflower, peppers, basil, mixed lettuce, and Swiss chard growing. Students will taste test a variety of recipes using our fresh ingredients and will participate in cooking demonstrations.”
Children who learn to grow and prepare vegetables tend to consume more vegetables in the long term, and school gardening programs are a proven way to teach healthy habits for a lifetime. Congratulations to Woodland Heights for helping their students grow up green and healthy!
