Civil Municipal - June 2024

The lessons are integrated with state education standards, particularly in science and nutrition, making them a valuable part of the curriculum. Doris Ellison, the Director of Elementary Curriculum, elaborates on the impact of the farm-to-school program. She explains that the program provides students with experiential learning opportunities, such as field trips to local farms to engage in activities like digging up potatoes. The practical experience is tied back to their classroom learning, enhancing their understanding and making learning more relevant and engaging for students. CTE AND BUSINESS EDUCATION INTEGRATION The district’s efforts extend beyond purchasing local produce. They have also invested in infrastructure such as greenhouses and grow stations in elementary and secondary schools. The investment supports the farm-to-school program and integrates into the district’s agricultural education programs. Secondary schools like Bonanza and Henley High School have on-campus farms where they raise livestock and grow produce, which are processed and served in school cafeterias. The full-circle approach—from raising and growing to processing and serving—allows students to understand the entire supply chain, fostering a deeper appreciation for agriculture and healthy eating. Students learn comprehensive skills beyond traditional agricultural education by incorporating business, marketing, and digital media elements. For instance, students involved in growing produce are tasked with creating marketing strategies and selling their products, providing a practical business education. The projects teach students how to manage products from production to market, offering a well-rounded educational experience. POSITIVE OUTCOMES AND FACULTY RECOGNITION One significant initiative was the introduction of oit.edu 183 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06 KLAMATH COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT