Texas Border Business
The Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller announced the Child Nutrition Program at Mission Consolidated Independent School District (CISD) has successfully completed the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) 2021 Spring Farm Fresh Challenge. They have joined schools and childcare providers across Texas to Eat Local, Teach Local and Be Social throughout the spring.
The children at Mission CISD ate local foods, learned about Texas agriculture, and the staff has shared their success on social media. The challenge is part of Commissioner Miller’s Farm Fresh Initiative that was created to connect farmers and ranchers with operators of the nutrition program administered by TDA.
Texas Agriculture Commissioner
“The Farm Fresh Challenge has been beneficial to our students not only because they are able to eat local foods but also because they have acquired knowledge in Texas agriculture,” states Dr. Carol G. Perez, Mission CISD superintendent.
This year’s special Spring Farm Fresh Challenge had a delayed start to allow agricultural producers a chance to assess product availability after winter storms. Schools and childcare centers were encouraged to use these current events in their lessons about the hard work and dedication required to bring food to the table. Prioritizing agricultural education and Texas foods during the challenge is a great way for partners to strengthen local economies and recognize the efforts of Texas farmers and ranchers.
“Learning is continuous, and the district has taken this concept one step further and is offering students local citrus industry agricultural knowledge through our newly implemented Mission FARMERS program,” states Dr. Carol G. Perez. “Our students have the opportunity to integrate hands-on learning through this program.”
Mission CISD students now have this innovative Mission FARMERS (Farmers, Agriculturists, Ranchers, Machinists, Engineers, Researchers, Suppliers) program for PreK-12th grade. Students will experience social and emotional growth, improve life skills, and be encouraged to consume nutritious, and high-quality foods. The Spring Farm Fresh Challenge along with Mission FARMERS are programs that are beneficial for Mission CISD students. It is a great way for them not only to learn about agriculture but also, they get to eat some of the most delicious home-grown fruits and vegetables.
