The New Jersey Department of Agriculture recently presented Bridgeton School District with the Cream of the Crop Award during a visit to the school’s classrooms, hydroponic and outdoor gardens, and cafeteria. The presentation took place during the celebration of the 15th Annual Jersey Fresh Farm to School Week and the Third Annual Ag Literacy Week.
“Congratulations to the Bridgeton School District on being awarded the Cream of the Crop Award and for their continued successful efforts to connect the importance of agriculture with nutritious and high-quality food,” said New Jersey Secretary of Agriculture Ed Wengryn.
“Through innovative and hands-on learning experiences, the Bridgeton School District demonstrates thoughtful and creative ways to incorporate agriculture education into their curriculum and recognizing the importance of New Jersey grown food by establishing community partnerships with local farmers,” Wengryn added.
Kristine Pepe is the coordinator of Bridgeton’s Farm to School program, leading over 200 garden lessons incorporating ag. education, nutrition education, social emotional lessons, social studies and more.
“Receiving the Department of Agriculture’s Cream of the Crop Award is such a meaningful honor for all of us at Bridgeton Public Schools,” she said. “Bringing garden and agricultural education directly into our classrooms isn’t just an extra project for us—it is a core part of how we support student wellness and curiosity.”
“Thanks to our local farm-to-school partnerships with The Common Market and Seashore Fruit & Produce, we can bring fresh, regionally grown produce straight to our students’ lunch trays every day. This recognition belongs to our entire school family, food service team, and partners who work together to keep Bridgeton’s students nourished, engaged, and inspired,” Pepe added.
The impact of the Farm to School Program continues to grow, with more than 500 school districts purchasing locally grown foods.
Jersey Fresh Farm to School Week was established by law in 2010 to bring attention to the Farm to School Program, which connects schools to local farmers to increase the amount of local fresh produce available for consumption by students during the school day.
