Bashaw Elementary is set to embark on an exciting new project that will enhance both the school's environment and its educational offerings.
On Tuesday, January 14, 2025, students and staff gathered to plant a school garden. This initiative is part of a broader effort to integrate hands-on learning experiences into the curriculum and promote healthy eating habits among students.
The garden will feature a variety of crops, including tomatoes, which will be used in the National School Lunch Program. These fresh ingredients will also play a key role in cooking lessons and taste testing sessions, providing students with a tangible connection to the food they consume.
This project has been made possible through the School District of Manatee County Food and Nutrition Service’s Department, which was awarded the USDA’s Patrick Leahy Farm to School Grant Turnkey Edible School Gardens on July 11, 2024. The grant, totaling $37,250, is designated for the creation of edible school gardens at several schools, including Bashaw Elementary, Bayshore Elementary, Moody Elementary, Samoset Elementary, Sugg Middle School, and Braden River High School.
In addition to gardening, the grant will support nutrition education lessons and the use of the kitchen as a classroom for math and science. The goal of the program is to create a comprehensive educational experience that fosters academic growth while deepening students’ connection to their food.
The school garden project at Bashaw Elementary is a testament to the power of the community and the importance of hands-on learning. By involving students in the process of growing their own food, the school is not only teaching valuable life skills but also promoting a healthier, more sustainable future.