Fernbank's Farm to School

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The mission of the Fernbank Farm to School initiative is to improve the health and nutrition knowledge of the school's community through garden-related curriculum, awareness campaigns and exposure to local and healthy food. Using Fernbank's edible garden, nutrition education will be integrated into every discipline, including science, math, language arts and social studies. Fernbank Farm to School supports the school district wellness policy and creates a healthier school environment by increaseing the availability of healthy food choices.

In the Fall of 2010, 13 raised bed garden boxes transformed a sunny courtyard at Fernbank School into a thriving garden. Children’s hands planted vegetables and everyone watched as a crop grew with each passing day.  The magic of mother nature put smiles on children’s faces as they realized that WE CAN GROW FOOD.  Fernbank kids learned about plant anatomy and nutrition in science class. Plant labels with Spanish names appeared in the garden. Our library sprouted a display of garden related books. Harvest day arrived and 700 kids tasted radishes, turnip greens, asian greens and arugula during P.E. Third grade used the boxes to learn about square feet and teamwork. The garden idea grew like kudzu at Fernbank! Two year later the garden continues to thrive along with the healthy spirit that grows each year at Fernbank!

Hands on learning

2011 Fall Festival