gardening – TrayTalk.org

Utah Elementary Lunchroom Leads the Way in Food Waste Diversion

At Academy Park Elementary near Salt Lake City, sustainability isn’t a buzzword, it’s a practice woven into the fabric of the school’s daily cafeteria operations. Thanks to the hard work of head custodian Rylie Ogden, the school is leading by example with their innovative food waste diversion process. The initiative is a perfect blend of education, teamwork and commitment to preserving the planet for future generations.

Hydroponic Gardens Sprouting in Schools

Hydroponic gardening is taking root in many schools across the country, offering students a unique, hands-on way to learn about sustainability, nutrition and science. By growing fresh produce in garden towers, schools are not only providing healthy ingredients for meals but also teaching valuable lessons in innovation and environmental responsibility. It’s a fresh approach that connects students to the food they eat and the science behind it.

For the past six years, the Unified School District of De Pere in Wisconsin has maintained three hydroponic towers, starting with one and adding two more over time. The primary goal is to educate students about an innovative way to grow fresh food while ensuring a steady supply of lettuce for school meals.

Composting in Montana Cafeterias

With several elementary schools in Bozeman School District 7 (Montana) successfully composting for a few years, the district’s nutrition department teamed up with a local business to bring composting to all 12 of its cafeterias and central kitchen facility this year.

Since the start of this school year, more than 27,000 pounds of food scraps have been collected and diverted from the landfill. The nutrition department now uses biodegradable paper products that can also be composted.