Cultivating Kids

Filmmakers Melissa Young and Mark Dworkin's documentary focuses on a program on South Whidbey Island in Washington state where the classroom is literally a garden. Students from kindergarten through high school learn the entire process of growing organic veggies, as well as get a literal taste of the fruits of their labor. The curriculum is science-rich—including soil composition, effects of sun and moisture, and other aspects that fit neatly into current STEM initiatives. And much of it is just plain fun, such as when a teacher tells students, “These kale plants are old and we need to plant other things here. Guess what you get to do? Pull them.”—which produces squeals of delight in the kids. The food here not only ends up in students' mouths in the field but also on the lunch plates of the school district: tomatoes, carrots, broccoli, beans, onions—and yes, kale (the kids love their “kale tacos”), which are all part of what looks like a healthy and delicious lunch experience for students. With experiential learning gaining increasing traction nationwide, this short film offers a unique look at a successful school garden program. Recommended. Aud: I, J, H, P. (C. Block)