School Gardens


Resources

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    Contact

    • Food & Nutrition Division
    • 405 S. 21st St. Sparks, NV 89431
    • 775-353-3758
    • FND@agri.nv.gov

      Overview

      Schools are one of the most powerful influences in the lives of students; they can significantly help to promote healthy habits and behavior in children. Schools with a healthy environment foster improved student health. School gardens are one way to promote a healthy environment. A school garden puts the natural world at students' fingertips. They nurture a child's curiosity and desire to explore the world.  As well, research shows that children who plant and harvest their own fruit and vegetables are more likely to eat them.

      Educators find that school gardens create the framework for interdisciplinary, collaborative, student-centered, experiential, and engaged learning. Visit the resources below to help your school develop an engaging school garden program.

        School Garden Program Information

        • USDA Farm to Child Nutrition Program Planning Guide  - Includes great resources for school gardens.
        • Nevada Farm to School
        • National Farm to School Network
        • National Agriculture in the Classroom School Garden Center (Resources on funding, recruiting volunteers, summer maintenance, and more!)

          Curriculum Resources

            Gardening Basics

              Risk Management and Food Safety

              With endless educational opportunities in school gardens, educators must have a proper food safety plan. Potential food safety risks should be taken seriously. Produce grown in school gardens can be contaminated during growth, harvest, transportation, preparation or service and result in food borne illness.