Many elementary students in Marion County — especially those in urban or dual-language classrooms — have limited opportunities for hands-on science, nutrition and garden-based learning.
By responding to county priorities and partnering with schools to deliver high-impact programming in the classroom, OSU Extension helps expand equitable access to enrichment opportunities and supports Marion County’s long-term goals for youth development and well-being.
Without direct experiences growing plants and trying healthy foods, students can struggle to connect STEM concepts to daily life and build lifelong habits that support health and environmental stewardship.
Experiential programs can help fill this gap by bringing inquiry-based learning into classrooms and supporting academic and social-emotional development.
Last fall, Oregon State University Extension Service 4-H educator Alix Brant and OSU Extension Master Gardener volunteers in Marion County partnered with six classrooms at Highland Elementary School in Salem and Kennedy Elementary School in Keizer to deliver the Junior Master Gardener Program during a six-week series. Two participating classrooms are dual language.
Each session combined STEM and literacy learning with hands-on activities focused on plant needs, plant parts and how to grow plants in the classroom. To connect gardening to healthy choices, every class includes a fruit or vegetable tasting, giving students the opportunity to try new foods while learning where food comes from and how it supports health.
This effort responds directly to a request from Marion County Commissioners to provide engaging, hands-on learning opportunities for students at Kennedy and Highland. The partnership supports county goals for youth development, healthy lifestyles and educational enrichment by providing a structured, school-based program with all materials supplied.
Students build skills and confidence
Through the six-week series, students at participating schools gained hands-on experience with plant science, nutrition and healthy eating in an inclusive classroom setting. Youths practiced curiosity, responsibility and problem-solving as they observed plant growth and applied science concepts in real time.
The repeated tastings broadened students’ exposure to fruits and vegetables and strengthened understanding of how food choices connect to health and local agriculture.
The program aims to reduce barriers and expand access. It invited participation from all students in participating classrooms, including youths from low-income or underserved communities. The program supported multilingual learners by providing dual-language classrooms.
Schools and families received all materials and activities at no charge, reducing barriers to their participation. Lessons emphasized collaboration and teamwork, creating a welcoming environment where students asked questions, participated fully and built confidence as learners.
Public value
When more elementary students have access to hands-on STEM and nutrition education, schools build stronger foundations for academic success and healthier communities. Garden-based learning helps students connect science to everyday life, strengthens problem-solving skills and encourages healthier food choices.
By responding to county priorities and partnering with schools to deliver high-impact programming in the classroom, OSU Extension helps expand equitable access to enrichment opportunities and supports Marion County’s long-term goals for youth development and well-being.
