Lassen County schools are celebrating after being awarded substantial grants from the California Farm to School Incubator Grant Program, with each district receiving $200,000 to expand agricultural education and enhance access to locally grown produce. The funds will foster hands-on learning experiences and promote sustainability across several schools.
Westwood Unified School District is one of the grant recipients, securing funds for its Greenhouse Project: Cultivating Education and Resilience. The project aims to replace an unfinished greenhouse with a fully operational facility that will serve as a hub for hands-on learning about agriculture and healthy eating.
This initiative will expand access to fresh, locally grown California produce for students, integrating sustainability into the curriculum. Westwood USD expressed gratitude to Benson’s Humble Homestead for its ongoing partnership and grant writer Robert Platou, whose efforts were instrumental in securing the funding.
Richmond Elementary will use its grant to expand the school’s agricultural science program and build a large greenhouse to grow fruits and vegetables year-round. The produce will be served in the cafeteria, providing students with fresh, nutritious food options. The project aims to inspire students with hands-on learning about sustainable food, organic gardening, and healthy lifestyles.
Read more on Sierra Daily News.
California Farm to School grants help agricultural education
