Kearney Public Schools Administration Office, (Brian Neben, Central Nebraska Today)
KEARNEY — Kearney Public Schools (KPS) is thrilled to announce that five of its elementary schools—Bryant, Central, Emerson, Kenwood, and Northeast—have been awarded the USDA Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Grant for the 2024-2025 school year. The grant totals $87,379 and will provide K-5 students with a daily fresh fruit or vegetable snack.
This initiative is designed to introduce students to a variety of fruits and vegetables, encouraging healthier eating habits at an early age. Each day, students will receive a different fruit or vegetable during a designated snack time, which will be integrated into the classroom routine. Teachers will provide brief educational lessons about the snacks, helping students learn about nutrition, the benefits of healthy eating, and the origins of the foods they are enjoying.
Kate Murphy, Director of the Bearcat Diner, expressed her enthusiasm for the program: “This grant allows us to further our commitment to student wellness by providing healthy snack options every day. We are excited to see our students explore new fruits and vegetables, fostering lifelong habits that contribute to their overall well-being.”
Superintendent Jason Mundorf echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the program’s educational component: “The Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Grant not only brings nutritious snacks into our classrooms but also provides a unique learning opportunity. We are proud to support our teachers as they help students discover the benefits of fresh produce and develop a taste for healthier foods.”
Snack times will vary between classrooms, allowing teachers to integrate these nutritious breaks into their daily schedules in a way that best supports their students’ learning and energy levels.
The USDA Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program is a federal initiative that aims to improve children’s diets and combat childhood obesity by increasing access to fresh produce. Kearney Public Schools is proud to be part of this program, reinforcing its dedication to the health and wellness of its students.
