The New Jersey Department of Agriculture presented Delaware Township School, located in Hunterdon County, the “Best of Farm to School Award” during a visit to the school. The award recognizes exemplary efforts to connect local food into cafeterias while also integrating agriculture into the learning experience for students. The presentation took place during the celebration of the 16th annual Jersey Fresh Farm to School Week and Fourth Annual Ag Literacy Week being held September 22-26.
“Delaware Township School is an outstanding example of the Farm to School purpose. By tying agriculture and nutritional education and embracing agriculture as an everyday part of the community where their students live, the school has earned this recognition,” said New Jersey Secretary of Agriculture Ed Wengryn. “By using hands on learning, farmer presentations, including farm visits, and incorporating Jersey Fresh and school-grown produce in their menus, students are able to see the process of growing and harvesting the food they get to enjoy and learn the importance of healthy-eating habits while developing an appreciation of where their food comes from.
The Delaware Township School was recognized for their commitment to connecting students to New Jersey agriculture with educational emphasis on community support, healthy eating habits, and the importance of supporting local farmers. Delaware Township School’s efforts to include daily activities, farm visits, farmer presentations, school-grown produce, animal care, and more have made agriculture a crucial part of student life. They also offer many programs such as Garden Club where students learn to plant, grow, and harvest food; as well as their Crop Box program that emphasizes the importance of community by offering school-grown produce to local neighbors.
Source : nj.gov