Ohio Invests in Agricultural Education
August 15, 2024 According to the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce, the state of Ohio has awarded more than $300,000 in Grow Ohio Grants, which create educational opportunities in agriculture. These USDA-funded grants support local agricultural education programs like school gardening, hydroponics and food literacy activities.
Several Ohio schools have already received grants, including Vermilion City Schools, Cincinnati Public Schools, The Buckeye Ranch, Olmsted Falls City Schools, Lakewood City Schools and more. These grants range in value from $10,000 to $40,000.
“The programs supported by our Grow Ohio Grants will enrich the lives of children across Ohio,” Governor Mike DeWine said. “My wife, Fran, is passionate about teaching young people where their food comes from and how it gets to their plate, and these programs do just that – offering first-hand experience at the rewarding process of growing, harvesting, and preparing fresh food. In many cases, food from these programs is even brought onto the school lunch menu for all students to enjoy.”
To qualify for a Grow Ohio Grant, these programs have to meet at least one of the following requirements:
- Focus on workforce development and introduce children to career opportunities in agriculture.
- Have a partnership with multiple local farmers or food producers.
- Serve children in communities where most students are eligible for free meals or meals at a reduced cost.
For more information about Grow Ohio Grants and the schools that received them, visit the Ohio Department of Agriculture and Education’s website.
