School Gardens Cultivate Growth in Franklin County Classrooms

Across the nation, school gardening programs are sprouting up at an unprecedented pace. According to the USDA Farm to School Census, these programs are becoming a staple in education, fostering a range of benefits for students. Research highlights that engaging youth in gardening not only encourages healthier eating habits but also improves mental and physical health, fosters awareness of agricultural and horticultural careers, strengthens a sense of community, and provides a hands-on, safe environment for experiential learning.

Here in Franklin County, the 4-H program is leading the charge in this growing movement. Under the guidance of Franklin County 4-H Agent MacKenzie Preece, students are getting their hands dirty and their minds engaged through garden-based education. Preece collaborates with several classrooms across the county to deliver interactive lessons that explore the origins of food and the anatomy of plants.

Beyond the classroom, the Franklin County 4-H Garden Club offers students the chance to go "from seed to supper." Meeting monthly, the club covers the full gardening cycle, from planting and nurturing seeds to harvesting produce for meals. This program instills practical skills and a deeper appreciation for where food comes from.

These initiatives are part of a broader effort to connect young people with agriculture and horticulture while promoting healthier communities. With each lesson and club meeting, Franklin County 4-H and its partners are cultivating not only plants but also future leaders and lifelong learners.