Four local farms brought their produce to Mitchell Elementary through a partnership between Chartwells K-12 and AAPS
It felt like trick-or-treating came early—and healthier—today as Mitchell Elementary students “shopped” for fresh fruits and vegetables at the school’s Student Farmers Market, part of AAPS’ initiative to connect students with locally grown produce.
The event, held in partnership with Chartwells K12, brought farms directly to the school’s front door, where students selected from a colorful array of fresh produce sourced from local farms that also supply the district’s meal programs.
“I like it!” exclaimed a kindergartener as he walked to his locker with a heavy bag of produce. “The pepper I picked out is lots bigger than the ones we have at home!”
Students participated in produce tastings and visited learning stations staffed by representatives from local farms, including Tom Maceri (cucumbers, lettuce, corn), Argus Farm Stop (summer squash, peppers), Nemeth’s Greenhouse and Farms (apples, potatoes), and Green Things Farm Collective (carrots, celery). Each student received a free bag of fresh produce to take home, along with activity packets featuring coloring sheets and nutrition information.
The market also featured a prize wheel game, in which students won produce-themed prizes, adding an element of fun to the educational experience.
“Our Farmers Markets create an exciting, real-world connection between students and the food they eat,” said Sandy Short, Chartwell K-12 Assistant Director. “They not only learn where their food comes from, but they also get to taste and take home the results of our partnerships with incredible local farmers.”
This marks the second farmers market at Mitchell Elementary since the district launched the initiative in July 2024 at Carpenter Elementary. The program has since expanded to include Haisley Elementary and has reached approximately 775 students across the district.
The hands-on experience reinforces lessons about nutrition, sustainability, and the importance of supporting local agriculture while making healthy food choices accessible and enjoyable for students from all backgrounds, Short said.
District organizers hope to expand the program to additional schools in the coming years, bringing farm-fresh food education to even more AAPS families.
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