Third Grade Explores Where Food Comes from with Special Guests

Students in 3rd grade welcomed two special guests to speak about food, from the farm to the table: Prairie Grass Cafe Co-owner and Chef Sarah Stegner and Steve Freeman from Marengo-based Nichols Farm and Orchard.

The 3rd graders signed up for electives that focused on different aspects of “Chicago,” students shared their preferences, and teachers placed them in groups after December Recess. Each group of 10 now travels “out into the field” to learn more about their topic.

The group “Where our Food Comes From” and Chef Zac Maness welcomed Chef Stegner and farmer Freeman to Parker; they explained how farms in Illinois operate and shared examples of apples grown on Freeman’s farm for students to taste and discuss. Chef Stegner led 3rd graders to the cafeteria kitchens, where she demonstrated and discussed how to make veggie chips.

Parker is extremely grateful to Chef Stegner and farmer Freeman for spending time on campus and showcasing the way lessons from class play out in the real world.

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