By Andi Anderson
Ohio’s agricultural education programs received a significant boost this year with the announcement of $332,960 in Grow Ohio Grants. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, along with Ohio Department of Education and Workforce Director Stephen D. Dackin, announced the grants on August 6.
These grants aim to support local programs that provide agricultural education opportunities for students in 14 communities across the state, including $9,242 allocated to Vermilion City Schools.
Vermilion High School will use its grant to launch a hydroponics growing program as part of its new agriculture career-technical education program. Students enrolled in “Introduction to Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources” will grow fresh lettuce for the school’s meal programs.
Additionally, they will collaborate with local growers to enhance their agricultural knowledge and share lessons with elementary students in the district.
Olmsted Falls City Schools also received $39,988 to develop an urban agriculture and sustainability course at Olmsted Falls High School. This course will offer farm-to-table experiences and expose students to various growing techniques.
Students will explore career pathways in agriculture and sustainability through guest speakers and field trips, including visits to the Secrest Arboretum at Ohio State University’s Wooster Campus and Cleveland State University.
In addition to these programs, the Grow Ohio Grants aim to increase relationships between Ohio food producers and child nutrition program sponsors, helping students gain valuable knowledge about potential careers in agriculture.
“For some students, these programs will inspire them to take an interest in the agriculture industry and become part of the next generation of Ohioans who will feed our communities,” said Governor DeWine.
The grants are part of the USDA State Agency Farm to School State Formula Grant, supporting schools, childcare centers, and community sponsors of summer meal programs.
These programs focus on workforce development, partnerships with local farmers, and serving children in communities with high percentages of students eligible for free and reduced-price meals.
Ohio Department of Agriculture Director Brian Baldridge emphasized the importance of teaching young people about food and agriculture, saying, “Learning where their food comes from and about the people who produce it will allow them to gain a deeper connection to agriculture, while inspiring the next generation.”
The Grow Ohio Grants are a vital step in ensuring that Ohio’s students are well-equipped with knowledge and skills for the future of the state’s agricultural industry.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-lisegagne
Categories: Ohio, Education