Rehoboth Elementary students harvest crops

Rehoboth Elementary students had reason to celebrate Nov. 16, as they harvested the first crops they planted in their own school garden.

The school garden was made possible by a program through Healthy Foods for Healthy Kids, which helps students learn about growing and eating their own vegetables. 

The program combines science curriculum specific to each grade level and aligns with Next Generation Science Standards, said Healthy Foods for Healthy Kids Community Engagement and Partnerships Director Anita Broccolino.

Healthy Foods for Healthy Kids helps with the program rollout, Broccolino said, and provides teachers with lesson plans and training so they can take the reins after the initial launch.

Lydia Sarson, Healthy Foods for Healthy Kids executive director, said Rehoboth Elementary first joined the program in 2012 but stopped in 2018 due to construction of the new school. In 2021, Healthy Foods staff and school volunteers built raised beds behind the new school.

“By engaging the Rehoboth students in joyful gardening experiences, we are sowing the seeds for a healthier future for the kids,” Sarson said.

Rehoboth Elementary joins more than 42 other Delaware schools currently participating in the program, which serves 17,000 students statewide, Broccolino said.

For more information, or to donate to the program, go to  healthyfoodsforhealthykids.org.