By

Melissa Olson,   Riverdale Elem School

Play:

Topics:

Success with Funds,  Other

Our Fourth Annual Ag Day was held in conjunction with the kick-off for our new year of Fuel Up to Play 60. We partnered with an existing event, Ag Day. We set up stations with the livestock and machinery brought in by area farmers. We also had stations of physical activity, including relays and roping. A healthy snack station was set up, thanks to funding from FUTP 60 and we provided cheese wedge shoe charms to all students. We live in a rural area, so it was easy to bring in area farmers before the business of fall harvest hits. They were excited to show the kids how they care for their livestock and the ground. Kids had a good understanding of where their food comes from and the event helps to develop relationships within the community. My advice for those looking to start up their year - look for events already planned for your school. It is easy to incorporate some plays into existing events!

How did students and adults work together as a team?

We used high school volunteers to help man stations and lead students around.

How do you plan to make this Play last during the school year and beyond?

This is a yearly event that seems to grow each time. This year, our local veterinarians came to show how they care for sick animals.

What improvements have you seen at your school?

The partnerships and friendships that develop between the school and community are so important. It helps kids appreciate the slow tractor they are following down the road and know that farmers work very hard to provide healthy food!