Nutrition Education Resources

From Cafeteria to Classroom

Nutrition Services, in collaboration with KSDE has created monthly "Harvest of the Month" education series for teachers and parents to help educate students about nutrition.

Nutrition education is vital for students because it empowers them to make informed choices about their diets, directly impacting their health, academic performance, and overall well-being. By understanding the importance of balanced nutrition, students can develop healthy eating habits early in life, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and promoting lifelong wellness.

January Harvest of the Month: Beef

All About Beef: From Farm to Fork

What is Beef?

Beef comes from cattle and is a nutritious food that provides our bodies with important nutrients. It can be made into burgers, tacos, meatballs, and more!

Nutrition Powerhouse

Beef is packed with nutrients that help keep us strong and healthy:

Protein – helps build muscles and repair body tissues.
Iron – gives us energy and helps carry oxygen in our blood.
Zinc – supports our immune system.
B vitamins – keep our brains working and our bodies energized.

Beef gives you these nutrients in a form your body can use easily!

How Beef is Raised

Cattle are raised by farmers and ranchers who care for them every day. Here's how it works:

Cow-Calf Farms – Cows give birth to calves that live with their mothers on pastures.
Backgrounding – As calves grow, they may move to a farm where they eat grass and grains to get stronger.
Feedlots – Older cattle go to feedlots where they eat a balanced diet designed by animal nutritionists.
Veterinarians help keep the cattle healthy throughout their lives.

Farmers use modern technology and traditional care to raise cattle responsibly and humanely.

From Farm to Table

After cattle are fully grown:

They are humanely transported to a processing facility.
The meat is inspected for safety by the USDA.
It is then packaged and sent to grocery stores, restaurants, and schools.

Benefits of Beef in School Meals

Great Taste – Kids love beef in tacos, spaghetti, and sandwiches!
Nutrient-Rich – Helps students stay focused and energized in class.
Supports Farmers – Choosing beef supports local farm families and rural communities.

Fun Fact Corner

A 3-ounce serving of cooked beef has about the same protein as 3 eggs!
Cattle help the environment by grazing land that can’t be used for crops.
Farmers recycle leftover food and plant materials to feed cattle.

Classroom Curriculum

Beef Morning Announcement for schools

Beef Newsletter

Curriculum for Preschool

Curriculum for K-2

Curriculum for 3-5

Fun Activities:

Beef Spot the Difference

Beef Fill in the Blank

Beef Crossword Puzzle

Beef Activity Book

Beef Coloring Book

Sources:

Kansas State Dept of Education [https://cnw.ksde.gov]

Montana Beef Council [https://www.montanabeefcouncil.org]

Missouri Beef Council [https://www.mobeef.org]

February Harvest of the Month: Sweet Potatoes

Sweet Potatoes: Nature’s Sweet Superfood

Kansas Harvest of the Month Sweet Potatoes

What Are Sweet Potatoes?

Sweet potatoes are a root vegetable with smooth skin and orange, purple, or white flesh. They grow underground and have a naturally sweet flavor. You might see them in fries, casseroles, or even muffins!

Nutrition Benefits

Sweet potatoes are not only tasty—they’re also packed with nutrients your body loves:

Vitamin A – helps keep your eyes healthy and your immune system strong.
Fiber – helps your digestion and keeps you feeling full.
Vitamin C – helps your body heal cuts and fight off germs.
Potassium – supports your muscles and heart.

Sweet potatoes are naturally low in fat and are a great source of energy for growing minds and bodies.

How Sweet Potatoes Grow

Sweet potatoes grow from slips, which are little shoots that sprout from a mature sweet potato.

Farmers plant these slips in warm soil in late spring.
The vines grow above ground, while the sweet potatoes grow underground.
Sweet potatoes need warm weather, sunshine, and a few months to grow big and sweet.

Harvesting Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are ready to harvest in the fall:

Farmers carefully dig them up to avoid bruising the tender skins.
After harvesting, they are cured—kept warm and humid for about a week—to make them even sweeter and help them last longer.

Storing Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are stored in cool, dark places—but not in the refrigerator. Cold temps can make them hard in the center and change the flavor.
When stored properly, sweet potatoes can last several weeks or even months.

How to Eat Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are super versatile! Here are some fun and healthy ways to enjoy them:

Baked with a little cinnamon
Mashed like regular potatoes
Roasted with herbs
Made into fries or chips
In muffins or pancakes for natural sweetness

Whether in a school lunch tray or a holiday dish, sweet potatoes are a crowd-pleaser!

Fun Fact Corner

The orange color in sweet potatoes comes from beta-carotene, which turns into vitamin A in your body.
George Washington Carver found over 100 uses for sweet potatoes—from glue to rubber!
Sweet potatoes are different from yams, even though people often confuse them.

Classroom Curriculum

Sweet Potato Announcement for Schools

Sweet Potato Newsletter for Schools

Sweet Potato Curriculum for Prek

Sweet Potato Curriculum for K-2

Sweet Potato Curriculum for 3-5

Fun Activities

Sweet Potato Coloring Page

Watch How Sweet Potatoes Go From Crop to Store

Sources

Kansas State Dept of Education [https://cnw.ksde.gov]

Food Hero [https://foodhero.org]

March Harvest of the Month: Pork

All About Pork: From Farm to Fork

What is Pork?

Pork is meat that comes from pigs. It’s a popular protein enjoyed all around the world in foods like ham, bacon, pulled pork, and sausage. Pork is flavorful, versatile, and full of nutrients that help our bodies grow and stay strong.

Nutrition Powerhouse

Pork is more than just delicious—it’s good for you too! A 3-ounce serving of lean pork provides:

Protein – builds muscles and keeps you full
Thiamin (Vitamin B1) – helps your body turn food into energy
Vitamin B6 and B12 – support brain function and red blood cells
Zinc – helps your immune system fight off germs
Iron – carries oxygen in your blood

Lean cuts of pork are low in fat and rich in nutrients your body needs every day.

How Pigs Are Raised

Pigs are raised on farms by skilled farmers who care for their health and well-being. Here’s a look at how it works:

Farrowing barns – Mother pigs (sows) give birth to piglets.
Nursery barns – Young piglets stay warm and safe as they grow.
Growing/finishing barns – Pigs are fed a balanced diet of corn, soybeans, vitamins, and minerals to grow strong and healthy.
Veterinarians and animal nutritionists work with farmers to keep pigs healthy.

Farmers use modern technology and safe practices to raise pigs responsibly.

Cuts of Pork

Pork comes in many tasty forms. Some common cuts include:

Pork chop – often grilled or baked
Pork loin – lean and great for roasting
Bacon – made from the belly, cooked crispy
Ham – comes from the leg and is popular for holidays
Pork shoulder – used in pulled pork and barbecue

Each cut has its own flavor and cooking style!

Benefits of Eating Pork

Tasty and filling – Kids enjoy pork in tacos, stir-fries, and sandwiches.
Supports farmers – Choosing pork helps support local agriculture.
Nutritious – Great source of energy and nutrients for growing bodies.

Many schools include lean pork in lunches to provide balanced, healthy meals.

Beyond Food: Other Uses for Pigs

Pigs help us in many surprising ways beyond the dinner plate:

Medical uses – Pig heart valves and insulin are used to help people.
Byproducts – Pigs provide ingredients for crayons, paint brushes, glue, and even marshmallows.
Fertilizer – Manure from pigs is used to enrich soil for crops.

Pigs are a valuable part of our lives in ways you might not expect!

Fun Fact Corner

Pigs are smart and can learn tricks—just like dogs!
Pork is the most widely eaten meat in the world.
Pigs have a great sense of smell and are even used to find truffles underground.

Classroom Curriculum:

Pork Morning Announcement for Schools

Pork Newsletter

Pork Curriculum for Prek

Pork Curriculum for K-2

Pork Curriculum for 3-5

Fun Activities:

Pork Coloring Pages

A Look inside a Kansas Pig Farm

Pork Activity Book for Grades 3-5

Pork Activity Book for Middle Schoolers

Sources:

Kansas State Dept of Education [https://cnw.ksde.gov]

Eat Pork [https://www.eatpork.org]

Illinois Pork Producers [https://ilpork.com]

April Harvest of the Month: Leafy Greens

Leafy Greens: Crunchy, Colorful, and Packed with Power

Kansas Harvest of the Month Leafy Greens

What Are Leafy Greens?

Leafy greens are vegetables that grow for their leaves—yes, the part we eat! They come in many shapes, colors, and flavors. Some taste mild and sweet, while others are bold and peppery.

Common leafy greens include:

Spinach
Kale
Romaine lettuce
Arugula
Collard greens
Swiss chard
Cabbage
Mustard greens

These veggies are colorful, crunchy, and super good for your body!

Nutrition in Every Leaf

Leafy greens are full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber that help you grow and stay healthy:

Vitamin A – supports your eyes and skin.
Vitamin C – boosts your immune system.
Vitamin K – helps your blood clot properly.
Folate – important for cell growth and development.
Calcium – builds strong bones and teeth.
Fiber – keeps your digestion running smoothly.

Best of all? Leafy greens are low in calories but high in nutrition!

How Leafy Greens Grow

Leafy greens grow best in cool weather—that’s why farmers often plant them in early spring or fall. They grow from seeds directly in the soil. Most leafy greens grow quickly and are ready to harvest in just 30–60 days!

They need sunlight, clean water, and good soil to grow strong.
Many greens grow in neat rows on farms or in raised beds in gardens.
Some greens, like lettuce, are even grown in greenhouses or hydroponic systems without soil!

Harvesting Leafy Greens

Leafy greens are usually picked by hand so they don’t get damaged. Farmers carefully cut the leaves or pull up the whole plant, depending on the type.

After harvest, they are:

Washed to remove dirt.
Cooled quickly to keep them crisp.
Packed and sent to stores, schools, and homes.

Fresh greens don’t last long, so they’re often eaten within a few days.

Tasty Ways to Eat Leafy Greens

Leafy greens can be eaten raw, cooked, or blended into your favorite dishes:

In salads with your favorite toppings and dressing
Sautéed with olive oil and garlic
Blended into smoothies with fruit
Added to soups and stews for extra nutrients
Tucked into sandwiches and wraps
Baked into chips (like crispy kale chips!)

Whether hot or cold, leafy greens are a delicious way to power up your plate.

3 Fun Facts About Leafy Greens

Spinach was Popeye’s favorite because it’s rich in iron—great for your blood and muscles!
Kale has been grown for over 2,000 years—it’s ancient!
Romaine lettuce was once considered a symbol of good luck in ancient Egypt.

Classroom Curriculum:

Leafy Greens Morning Announcements for Schools

Leafy Greens Newsletter

Leafy Greens Curriculum for Prek

Leafy Greens Curriculum for K-2

Leafy Greens Curriculum for 3-5

Fun Activities:

Watch a video on how spinach goes from Farm to Table

Sources:

Kansas State Dept of Education [https://cnw.ksde.gov]

Indiana University [https://www.iu.edu]

May Harvest of the Month: Berries

Bursting with Goodness: All About Berries!

May Kansas Harvest of the Month Mixed Berries

Berries are small, colorful fruits that pack a big punch when it comes to flavor and nutrition. Whether you love strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries, these sweet treats are more than just tasty—they’re superfoods for your body!

Nutrition Benefits of Berries

Berries may be small, but they’re full of powerful nutrients that help you feel your best:

Vitamin C – keeps your immune system strong and helps heal cuts.
Fiber – helps your digestion and keeps you feeling full.
Antioxidants – protect your body’s cells and help fight off illness.
Low in calories – a great snack choice that’s both healthy and delicious.

Berries are also naturally sweet, which makes them a perfect alternative to sugary snacks.

How Berries Are Grown

Berries grow on plants, bushes, or vines and love plenty of sunshine and water.

Strawberries grow close to the ground on small green plants.
Blueberries grow on shrubs and need acidic soil.
Raspberries and blackberries grow on thorny bushes called canes.

Farmers plant berry bushes in rows so they can grow strong and be easy to care for. Many berries bloom in spring and ripen in early to mid-summer.

Harvesting Berries

Berries are delicate, so they’re usually picked by hand to keep them from getting squished or bruised. Harvesting often happens early in the morning when it’s cooler outside to keep the berries fresh.

After harvest, berries are:

Sorted to remove any damaged fruit.
Packed into containers.
Kept cool to stay fresh until they’re eaten.

Tasty and Fun Ways to Eat Berries

There are so many ways to enjoy berries at home or in the cafeteria:

Fresh by the handful—a sweet, simple snack.
In smoothies with yogurt or milk.
On top of cereal, oatmeal, or pancakes.
Baked into muffins, pies, or cobblers.
Frozen into popsicles or yogurt bark for a cool treat!

You can even try growing your own strawberries at home or at school!

Fun Berry Facts – Kansas Edition!

Kansas is home to many u-pick berry farms, especially for strawberries and blackberries! Families can visit in late spring and early summer to pick their own fresh berries.
Berries grow well in Kansas soil, especially in the eastern and central parts of the state where the climate is ideal for berry bushes.
Wichita Public Schools includes berries in their school meals —supporting local farmers while giving students a healthy boost!

Whether you’re learning about food, planting a school garden, or planning a fun snack, berries are a colorful and healthy way to make your day a little sweeter.

Classroom Curriculum:

Berries Morning Announcements

Berries Newsletter

Berries Curriculum for PreK

Berries Curriculum for K-2

Berries Curriculum for 3-5

Fun Activities:

Did you know you can pick berries right here near Wichita?

Meadowlark Farms in Rose Hill
Sweet Berries and Brambles near Harper, KS
Elderslie Farms near Kechi, KS
Tenth Street Orchard near Sterling, KS
Blackberry Heaven near Towands, KS

Watch videos on how strawberries grow:

Sources:

Kansas State Dept of Education [https://cnw.ksde.gov]

June Harvest of the Month: Cucumbers

Cool as a Cucumber: Crunchy, Fresh, and Full of Goodness!

June Kansas Harvest of the Month Cucumbers

Cucumbers are long, green veggies that are cool, crunchy, and full of water. They’re a favorite in salads, snacks, and school lunches—and they’re good for you, too!

Nutrition Benefits of Cucumbers

Cucumbers are more than just refreshing—they’re packed with healthy benefits:

Hydration – Cucumbers are 95% water, making them a great way to stay hydrated.
Vitamin K – helps your body heal and keeps bones strong.
Potassium – supports healthy muscles and blood pressure.
Fiber – especially in the skin, helps with digestion.

Cucumbers are low in calories and a great choice for a light, healthy snack!

How Cucumbers Are Grown

Cucumbers grow best in warm weather, so farmers in Kansas and across the country plant them in late spring after the last frost.

Cucumbers grow on vines that either sprawl along the ground or climb trellises.
Each plant produces bright yellow flowers, which turn into cucumbers after being pollinated by bees.
They grow quickly—often ready to pick just 50–70 days after planting!

There are different types of cucumbers, including:

Slicing cucumbers – the kind you see in salads and school lunches.
Pickling cucumbers – shorter and used to make pickles.

Harvesting Cucumbers

Cucumbers are usually picked by hand so they don’t get bruised. Farmers pick them:

Every few days, since cucumbers grow fast.
While they’re still firm, green, and just the right size.

After harvesting, they are cooled, washed, and packed so they’re ready to enjoy fresh or pickled.

Fun and Tasty Ways to Enjoy Cucumbers

Cucumbers are super versatile—you can enjoy them:

Sliced in salads or wraps
Dipped in hummus or ranch dressing
Chopped into a veggie salsa
Infused in water with lemon or mint for a refreshing drink
Turned into pickles for a zesty snack

You can even use cucumbers in smoothies—they add freshness without changing the flavor too much!

Cool Cucumber Facts – Kansas Style!

Kansas farmers grow cucumbers for both fresh eating and pickling, especially in home gardens and small farms across the state.
Cucumbers love Kansas summers! The warm weather and rich soil make it a great place to grow cukes.
Wichita Public Schools include locally grown cucumbers on our salad bars and lunches!

Cucumbers are fun to grow, easy to prepare, and delicious to eat. Whether you're crunching on a slice or planting seeds in the school garden, cucumbers are a fresh way to stay healthy and cool!

Classroom Curriculum:

Cucumber Morning Announcements

Cucumber Newsletter

Cucumber Curriculum for PreK

Cucumber Curriculum for K-2

Cucumber Curriculum for 3-5

Fun Activities:

Cucumber Activity Guide

How to grow cucumbers?

How do cucumbers grow?

Sources:

Kansas State Dept of Education [https://cnw.ksde.gov]

July Harvest of the Month: Wheat

Wheat in Kansas: Growing Goodness from the Ground Up

Did you know that Kansas is often called “The Wheat State”? That’s because it grows more wheat than almost any other state in the U.S.! From golden fields to the bread on your lunch tray, wheat plays an important role in Kansas—and in our diets. Why is wheat so crazy about Kansas? Well, it’s all about our climate! Wheat is like that easygoing friend who doesn’t mind a little rain (10-15 inches a year, to be precise). And guess what? It grows in every county here! We mostly grow winter wheat, which means it’s planted in the fall and harvested during the sunny summer days.

What Is Wheat?

Wheat is a type of grain, or cereal crop, that is ground into flour and used to make food like:

Bread
Cereal
Pasta
Tortillas
Crackers
Muffins

You probably eat something made from wheat almost every day!

History Lesson

Wheat has a story to tell! Back in the 1870s, German and Russian Mennonites brought a special wheat called Turkey Red. It loved Kansas like a sunflower loves sunshine! Even when tough times hit—droughts, locusts, and the Great Depression—wheat stood strong. During World War II, our farmers became superheroes, feeding our troops with wheat power!

Nutrition Benefits of Wheat

Wheat is full of energy and nutrients that help our bodies grow, learn, and stay healthy:

Carbohydrates – give you the energy you need to run, play, and think.
Fiber – helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full.
B vitamins – support brain function and help your body use energy.
Iron – carries oxygen in your blood and helps keep you energized.

Whole wheat products are especially nutritious because they use the entire grain!

How Wheat Is Grown in Kansas

Kansas farmers are wheat-growing pros! Wheat is usually planted in the fall and harvested in the early summer.

Planting – Farmers use tractors to plant wheat seeds into large fields.
Growing – The wheat sprouts and grows slowly through the winter, then shoots up in the spring.
Ripening – By late spring, the wheat turns a golden color, waving in the Kansas wind.

Most wheat grown in Kansas is hard red winter wheat, which is great for making bread and rolls.

Our state soil, Harney silt loam, is wheat’s BFF. It’s a mix of sand, silt, and clay—perfect for holding moisture and letting excess water drain away. Imagine a cozy blanket for wheat roots! But farmers work hard to keep the soil healthy. They add nutrients (like giving vitamins to the soil) and practice cool things like crop rotation (wheat dances with corn, soybeans, and sorghum).

Harvesting Wheat

Harvest is an exciting time in Kansas! Farmers use large machines called combines to:

Cut the wheat stalks.
Separate the grain (the part we eat) from the rest of the plant.
Store the grain in trucks or bins to be sent to flour mills.

Once milled into flour, it’s used in schools, homes, bakeries, and restaurants across the country—and the world!

Fun Ways to Enjoy Wheat

Wheat is everywhere! Here are just a few tasty ways you might enjoy it:

A sandwich made with whole wheat bread
Pasta with your favorite sauce
Breakfast cereal with fruit and milk
Homemade muffins or rolls
Pretzels or crackers as a snack

Look for the words “whole grain” or “100% whole wheat” on packages to get the most nutrition.

Fun Facts About Kansas Wheat

Kansas grows enough wheat each year to bake over 36 billion loaves of bread!
Nearly 1 in every 5 acres of wheat in the U.S. is grown in Kansas.
Wheat is grown in every Kansas county—making it a crop that connects the entire state!

Wheat is more than just a plant—it’s part of Kansas’ history, economy, and daily meals. The next time you eat a slice of bread or a bowl of pasta, remember: it may have started as a tiny wheat seed in a Kansas field!

Classroom Curriculum:

Wheat Morning Announcements

Wheat Newsletter

Wheat Curriculum for PreK

Wheat Curriculum for K-2

Wheat Curriculum for 3-5

Fun Resources:

Kansas Farm Bureau "I Work with Wheat"

North Dakota's Wheat Commission Story of Wheat

What's in the Field Crossword Puzzle

Wheat Coloring Page

What's in the Field?

Watch Wheat go from Farm to Bread

Fun Recipes to Try:

Pumpkin Oat Dark Chocolate Chip Cookies

Whole Wheat Muffins with Apples and Oats

Sources:

Kansas State Dept of Education [https://cnw.ksde.gov]

August Harvest of the Month: Melons

Melons: Juicy, Sweet, and Full of Summer Fun

August Kansas Harvest of the Month Melons

Melons are some of the most refreshing fruits you can eat—especially in the hot summer months. Whether you like watermelon, cantaloupe, or honeydew, melons are packed with flavor, hydration, and nutrition!

Nutrition Benefits of Melons

Melons aren’t just tasty—they’re also full of nutrients that help your body stay healthy and cool:

Vitamin C – boosts your immune system and helps your body heal.
Vitamin A – supports good eyesight and healthy skin.
Potassium – helps your heart and muscles work properly.
Water – melons are about 90% water, which helps keep you hydrated!

Melons are naturally low in calories, fat-free, and full of natural sweetness.

How Melons Are Grown

Melons grow on vines that spread along the ground. They love warm, sunny weather—just like Kansas summers!

Planting – Melon seeds are planted in late spring after the soil has warmed up.
Growing – Vines grow quickly and produce yellow flowers that turn into tiny melons.
Ripening – Over the summer, melons grow larger and sweeter, soaking up sun and water.

Farmers keep an eye out for pests and weeds and make sure the vines stay healthy until harvest time.

Harvesting Melons

Melons are ready to harvest when they are:

Fully colored and have a sweet smell.
Easy to pull from the vine (especially cantaloupe).
Heavy for their size and sound hollow when tapped (a sign of juiciness!).

Because melons are delicate, they are picked by hand and handled carefully to avoid bruising.

Tasty and Fun Ways to Eat Melons

Melons are super versatile and easy to enjoy! Try them:

Cubed in fruit salads
Sliced for a snack or school lunch
Blended into smoothies or frozen into popsicles
Scooped into fun melon balls
With a sprinkle of lime or a pinch of salt for extra flavor

They’re perfect for breakfast, snacks, or as a naturally sweet dessert.

Fun Melon Facts – Kansas Edition!

Kansas farmers grow watermelon, cantaloupe, and other melons, especially in home gardens and on small farms during the summer.
Melons grow well in Kansas thanks to the warm temperatures and long growing season.
We serve fresh melon in the cafeteria during the early fall, when melons are at their peak!

From vine to bite, melons are a fun, refreshing way to eat healthy—especially when they’re grown close to home. Whether you’re snacking on watermelon or adding cantaloupe to your breakfast, melons make any day sweeter!

Classroom Curriculum:

Melon Morning Announcements

Melon Newsletter

Melon Curriculum for PreK

Melon Curriculum for K-2

Melon Curriculum for 3-5

Nebraska Farm to School Melon Guide

Watermelons on the Vine Activity Book

Watch a Watermelon Grow from Seed to Fruit

Fun Recipes

Watermelon Pizza

Sources:

Kansas State Dept of Education [https://cnw.ksde.gov]

Kids Gardening - Growing Guide [https://kidsgardening.org/]

Britannica Kids [https://kids.britannica.com]

September Harvest of the Month: Tomatoes

Tomatoes: Juicy, Colorful, and Full of Flavor

Tomatoes are one of the most popular and versatile foods in the world. From ketchup to pizza sauce to fresh slices on a sandwich, tomatoes are everywhere—and they’re packed with nutrition, too!

Nutrition Benefits of Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a super source of vitamins and other important nutrients:

Vitamin C – helps your body heal and supports your immune system.
Vitamin A – keeps your eyes and skin healthy.
Potassium – supports a healthy heart and muscles.
Lycopene – a powerful antioxidant that gives tomatoes their red color and helps protect your body’s cells.

Tomatoes are also low in calories and high in water—making them a great, hydrating food!

How Tomatoes Are Grown

Tomatoes grow on plants that thrive in warm weather and full sun. Here’s how farmers (and even backyard gardeners!) grow them:

Starting from seeds – Young tomato plants begin in greenhouses or indoors.
Transplanting – Once the plants are strong and the weather is warm, they’re planted outside in fields or gardens.
Growing and flowering – Tomato plants produce yellow flowers, which turn into small green tomatoes.
Ripening – Tomatoes grow larger and slowly change color from green to red, orange, yellow, or even purple—depending on the variety!

Tomatoes need lots of sunshine, water, and support like cages or stakes to hold up their branches as they grow.

Harvesting Tomatoes

Tomatoes are picked when they are:

Fully colored (red, yellow, etc.)
Slightly soft to the touch
Easy to remove from the vine

Because tomatoes bruise easily, many are harvested by hand. After picking, they are washed and sorted before heading to grocery stores, schools, and kitchens.

Fun and Tasty Ways to Eat Tomatoes

Tomatoes can be eaten raw, cooked, or blended—here are some kid-approved ideas:

Sliced on sandwiches or wraps
Chopped in salads or salsa
Blended into sauces for pasta or pizza
Baked into casseroles or stuffed
Roasted or grilled with olive oil and herbs
Eaten like an apple! (Yes, some varieties are that sweet!)

Tomatoes come in all shapes and sizes—like cherry, grape, Roma, and beefsteak—each with a unique taste and texture.

Fun Tomato Facts

Tomatoes are fruits—but most people treat them like vegetables! Botanically, they grow from a flower and have seeds, just like apples and oranges.
Kansas gardeners love tomatoes! They’re one of the most popular crops in home and school gardens across the state.
There are over 10,000 varieties of tomatoes grown around the world—some are even striped or shaped like hearts!

From garden to lunch tray, tomatoes are a delicious and healthy way to brighten any meal. Whether you grow them, cook with them, or snack on them fresh, tomatoes are a big part of school nutrition and local farming in Kansas and beyond.

Classroom Curriculum:

Tomato Morning Announcements

Tomato Newsletter

Tomato Curriculum for Prek

Tomato Curriculum for K-2

Tomato Curriculum for 3-5

Tomatoes Farm to Table

Tomato Exploration

Fun Activities:

Vegetable Crossword

Tomato Activity Booklet

How do Tomatoes Grow?

Are Tomatoes a Fruit or a Vegetable?

Sources:

Kansas State Dept of Education [https://cnw.ksde.gov]

Britannica Kids [https://kids.britannica.com]

National Agriculture in the Classroom [https://agclassroom.org]

October Harvest of the Month: Apples

Apples: Crunchy, Sweet, and Good for You

Apples are one of the most popular fruits in the world—and for good reason! They’re tasty, colorful, and packed with nutrients that help keep your body strong and your brain sharp.

Nutrition Benefits of Apples

An apple a day really can help keep the doctor away! Here’s why:

Fiber – helps with digestion and keeps you full.
Vitamin C – boosts your immune system and helps heal cuts and scrapes.
Antioxidants – protect your cells and keep your body healthy.
Natural sugars – give your body energy without added sweeteners.

Apples are also low in calories and contain no fat, making them a great snack any time of day.

How Apples Are Grown

Apples grow on trees and need several years to mature and produce fruit. Growing apples is a long but rewarding process:

Planting – Apple trees start as small saplings and grow in orchards.
Blooming – In spring, beautiful pink and white flowers bloom. These blossoms turn into apples after they’re pollinated by bees.
Growing – Apples grow all summer long, soaking up sunshine and rain.
Ripening – In late summer or fall, apples change color and become crisp and sweet.

Different apple varieties grow best in different climates—and many grow well right here in Kansas!

Harvesting Apples

Most apples are harvested in the fall. Here's how it works:

Apples are usually picked by hand to avoid bruising.
They are sorted and washed, then sent to stores, markets, or school lunch programs.
Apples can be stored in special coolers for several months so they stay fresh all winter long.

Delicious and Fun Ways to Eat Apples

There are so many fun ways to enjoy apples:

Sliced with peanut butter or cheese
Baked into pies, crisps, or muffins
In applesauce or apple butter
As a topping on oatmeal or salads
Dipped in yogurt or caramel for a treat

Some apples are better for eating fresh (like Gala or Honeycrisp), while others are perfect for cooking (like Granny Smith or Jonathan).

Fun Apple Facts – Kansas Edition!

Kansas is home to many local apple orchards, especially in the eastern part of the state. Families and schools often visit in the fall to pick their own apples.
Over 2,500 apple varieties are grown in the U.S., and several—like Jonathan and Fuji—grow well in Kansas.
Apples are part of many school Farm to School programs, so students in Wichita Public Schools may eat locally grown apples at lunch!

Whether you crunch into one fresh or bake it into a warm dessert, apples are a delicious way to eat healthy and support local agriculture. They’re easy to pack, fun to share, and always in season for learning!

Classroom Curriculum:

Apple Morning Announcements

Apple Newsletter

Apple Curriculum for Prek

Apple Curriculum for K-2

Apple Curriculum for 3-5

Fun Activities:

Recipe to Try: Apple Pie Overnight Oats

Apple Activities

Apple Word Search

Visit an Apple Orchard:

Apple Factory Tour

Sources:

Kansas State Dept of Education [https://cnw.ksde.gov]

Washington Agriculture in the Classroom [https://washington.agclassroom.org]

November Harvest of the Month: Pumpkins

Pumpkins: More Than Just Jack-O'-Lanterns!

Pumpkins aren’t just for Halloween—they’re a superfood that’s as nutritious as it is fun! From pumpkin pie to roasted seeds, this bright orange squash has something for everyone.

Nutrition Benefits of Pumpkins

Pumpkins are packed with nutrients that help your body stay strong and healthy:

Vitamin A – great for your eyes and immune system.
Fiber – helps your digestion and keeps you feeling full.
Vitamin C – boosts your immune system and helps your body heal.
Potassium – helps your heart and muscles stay strong.

Pumpkins are low in calories and rich in antioxidants—especially beta-carotene, which gives pumpkins their orange color.

How Pumpkins Are Grown

Pumpkins grow best in warm weather and need lots of space to spread out. Here's how the process works:

Planting – Seeds are planted in the late spring after the soil has warmed up.
Vining – Pumpkin plants grow long vines that spread across the ground.
Blooming – Bright yellow flowers bloom in summer, and bees help pollinate them.
Growing – After pollination, small green pumpkins begin to grow. They slowly turn orange (or white, green, or even blue, depending on the variety) as they ripen.

Pumpkins grow all summer and are ready to harvest in the fall.

Harvesting Pumpkins

Pumpkins are harvested in September and October when they’re fully colored and sound hollow when tapped. Farmers:

Cut the pumpkin off the vine with clippers or knives.
Leave a bit of the stem, which helps the pumpkin last longer.
Store pumpkins in a cool, dry place until they’re ready to use or display.

Fun fact: The stem is called the handle—just like on a mug!

Fun and Tasty Ways to Eat Pumpkins

You can eat almost every part of the pumpkin, including the seeds! Try these tasty ideas:

Pumpkin puree in soups, smoothies, or pasta sauce
Roasted pumpkin cubes as a side dish
Pumpkin pie, muffins, or pancakes for a sweet treat
Pumpkin seeds (pepitas) roasted with a sprinkle of salt or cinnamon
Pumpkin chili for a cozy fall dinner

Just make sure to cook the right kind—pie pumpkins are smaller and sweeter than carving pumpkins.

Fun Pumpkin Facts – Kansas Edition!

Kansas farmers grow thousands of pumpkins each year, especially for fall festivals and local pumpkin patches.
Pumpkins are part of the squash family and are grown in school gardens and community plots across the state.
In 2023, Kansas hosted pumpkin weigh-offs where giant pumpkins tipped the scales at over 1,000 pounds!

From pumpkin patches to your plate, pumpkins are a symbol of fall and a superfood packed with nutrients and fun. Whether you carve them, cook them, or grow them in a school garden, pumpkins are a seasonal favorite in Kansas and beyond!

Classroom Curriculum:

Pumpkin Morning Announcements

Pumpkin Newsletter

Pumpkin Curriculum for Prek

Pumpkin Curriculum for K-2

Pumpkin Curriculum for 3-5

Fun Activities:

Try these Recipes: Harvest Spice Pumpkin Bars or Pumpkin Fluff

Pumpkin Maze

Pumpkin Crossword Puzzle

Watch a Pumpkin Grow!

Pumpkin Patches Near Wichita

Meadowlark Farm, Rose Hill
Applejack Pumpkin Patch, Augusta
Marietta Farm, Andover
Walter's Pumpkin Patch, Burns
Cedar Creek Farm, Maize
Mr. Gourdman's Pumpkin Patch, Derby
Klausmeyer Dairy Farm & Pumpkin Patch, Clearwater
P&P Pumpkin Ranch, Moundridge

Sources:

Kansas State Dept of Education [https://cnw.ksde.gov]

Agriculture in the Classroom [https://agclassroom.org]

Visit Wichita [www.visitwichita.com]

December Harvest of the Month: Dairy

Discover Dairy: Fuel for Growing Bodies and Healthy Smiles

Dairy foods are an important part of a healthy diet—especially for growing students! From a cold glass of milk to a cheesy sandwich, dairy gives our bodies the nutrients we need to build strong bones, power our brains, and support overall wellness.

What Is Dairy?

Dairy refers to foods made from milk, typically from cows. Some of the most common dairy products include:

Milk – The foundation of all dairy foods. It’s rich in calcium, vitamin D, protein, and more.
Yogurt – A creamy, cultured product made from fermented milk. It’s filled with probiotics that support a healthy digestive system.
Cheese – Available in endless flavors and textures, cheese provides calcium, protein, and other key nutrients.
Cottage cheese, cream, butter, and kefir – Other tasty and nutritious ways to enjoy dairy.

Health Benefits of Dairy

Dairy helps your body stay strong, inside and out! Here's how:

Strong Bones and Teeth

Calcium is key for bone strength. Dairy is the #1 food source of calcium, which supports bone growth and helps prevent future problems like osteoporosis.
Vitamin D, added to most milk, helps your body absorb and use calcium effectively.

Growth and Development

Protein from dairy helps build muscles and repair tissues—great for growing kids!
B vitamins, zinc, and selenium in dairy support brain health, energy levels, and immune function.

Heart Health

Potassium in milk and yogurt helps control blood pressure.
Some studies suggest that moderate dairy intake may reduce the risk of heart disease.

Weight Management

Dairy's protein helps you feel full longer, which can help manage appetite.
Calcium may also play a role in reducing fat storage.

How Can Students Get More Dairy?

Start the Day Right

Eat breakfast at school—we serve milk, yogurt, cheese, and whole grains to fuel your day!
At home, try scrambled eggs with cheese, yogurt with granola, or a glass of low-fat milk.

Snack Smart

Grab a cheese stick or yogurt cup for a quick and healthy after-school snack.
Try cottage cheese with fruit or yogurt and honey for something new.

Lunchtime Delights

Choose milk with your school lunch.
Add cheese to sandwiches or wraps, or choose a dairy-based entrée at school like mac and cheese or quesadillas.

Explore New Flavors

Try different types of yogurt—Greek, fruit-flavored, or plain.
Explore cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, Swiss, or feta. There’s a flavor for everyone!

What About Plant-Based Alternatives?

While plant-based “milks” like almond or oat milk can be part of a diet, they don’t match real dairy when it comes to protein, calcium, and overall nutrition. For students—especially kids aged 1 to 5—plain milk and water are the best beverage choices.

Let’s Raise a Glass (of Milk) to Good Health!

Dairy plays a big role in helping students learn better, grow stronger, and stay energized throughout the day. So whether it’s yogurt at breakfast, milk with your lunch, or a cheese stick on the go—remember: dairy does a body good!