CHS, CMS Students Favor Fruit This Week

This week, students at the high and middle schools can supplement their lunches with fresh fruits and vegetables as part of Jersey Fresh Farm to School Week.

For the second year in a row, the Cinnaminson School District is participating in the program by setting up produce stands in the cafeteria during lunch periods where students can—free of charge—choose from a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables.

Fancy carrots are a favorite among students, said culinary arts teacher Mike Beirao, who helped get the program started here.

“The easiest thing to do is get fresh vegetables and fruits and eat them,” said Beirao. “It gives kids the opportunity to make good choices and doing this is a rewarding experience for them.”

The school district teamed up with Lew’s Farm Market on Lenola Road. The Lews have three boys in the school district and Beirao thought they would be great parners to collaborate with, he said.

The stand was set up each day of school this week.

“If we put it on their tray,” Beirao said, “they won’t eat it. But if they pick it out, they will eat it. The kids pick what they want, it’s nice.”

The last week of September is designated as Farm to School Week to promote the state’s agricultural industry and encourage children to eat more fresh fruits and vegetables. The program also helps support local farmers and nutrition education.

“I would say about 75 percent of students go and get something from the stands,” Beirao said. “I’ve had several kids come up and say it’s their favorite week during lunch.”

Fruits and vegetables offered to the students include locally grown apples, peppers, carrots, broccoli, cauliflower and nectarines.

Beirao and chemistry teacher Ed Palmer found out about the program last year after doing research on opening a greenhouse at the high school. The superintendent and school board were very supportive, Beirao said.

Both Beirao and Palmer are talking about putting a vegetable garden in senior court this spring at the high school.