Here is how the project went:
Our Roots & Shoots project, aimed to transform cafeteria food waste into fresh produce for families facing food insecurity in our school community. As a diverse group of 4th-6th graders at a Title 1 school, we were shocked to discover that 20% of the food served in our cafeteria ends up in the trash each day. At the same time, many of our classmates lack access to nutritious fruits and vegetables at home. We decided to take action to address both of these interconnected issues. Our primary goals are 1) to reduce cafeteria food waste through composting, 2) to grow healthy produce for food insecure families, and 3) to provide hands-on sustainability education for students across all grades. First, we designed and are still in the process of building raised garden beds near the cafeteria using upcycled materials. Next, we set up a multi-bin composting system and arranged for student "compost monitors" to collect food waste from the cafeteria after each lunch period. We used the Roots & Shoots grant funds to purchase garden supplies like seeds, seedlings, organic fertilizer, tools, and other garden materials. Although we didn't get to plant a variety of fruits and vegetables well-suited to our region, we began tending to the garden beds daily. Our goal for next year is, as the produce ripens, harvest it and distribute it to families identified as food insecure. Surplus produce will be donated to the local food bank. The garden has begun to be integrated into classroom curriculum, with students conducting hands-on learning activities. We have engaged the entire school community in the project, with volunteers from all grades helping during weekend garden work days. So far, the project has diverted hundreds of pounds of food waste from the landfill, provided fresh produce to dozens of families, and empowered students with knowledge and skills for sustainable living. We hope our project inspires other schools to see cafeteria food waste as a resource for nourishing communities.
Through this project I/we learned:
This was a great starter year for the grant we received. We were able to get the foundation laid so that we can begin gaining ground at the beginning of the next school year.
What I/we might change:
We would be more specific in what all we feel like we could actually accomplish in a single year with a small group.
My/our favorite part of this project was:
Learning about ways to incorporate all the grade levels into our composting journey.
Some tips, tricks or fun facts about the project:
It's ok to start small and work up to where you can be successful. Any start is a good start in making a life long change.
