To see a collection of photos from Agriculture Day, please visit our Facebook page.
South Ridge Elementary School’s 2nd grade students experienced a day of hands-on learning and community connection during the school’s recent Agriculture Day. The event brought together local farmers, agricultural experts, and volunteers to share their knowledge and passion with South Ridge’s young Roadrunners.
Throughout the day, students rotated through interactive stations that highlighted different aspects of agriculture. Presentations covered a wide range of topics, including farm equipment, livestock, plant production, pollinators, and small-scale farming. The experience gave students a deeper understanding of where food comes from and the many roles agriculture plays in everyday life.
Ridgefield has a long and proud history rooted in agriculture, and events like Agriculture Day help bring that history to life for students. By connecting classroom learning with real-world experiences, students gain a greater appreciation for the traditions and industries that have helped shape their community.
The event featured a strong lineup of local presenters who generously volunteered their time. Amy Schurman, a South Ridge paraeducator, shared insights on farm equipment, while Kristy Romito of Romito Ranch introduced students to cattle. Tonya Meyer of Allen Creek Farm spoke about chicken rescue efforts, and Lisa Robbins of Tunnel Vision Produce LLC highlighted plant production. Anne Bulger, a WSU Master Gardener, taught students about mason bees and their role as pollinators, and members of the Lamping family shared their experiences running a hobby farm and caring for goats.
The school also expressed appreciation to Clark Public Utilities District (PUD) for providing tents that kept presenters, students, and staff dry during the rainy spring weather.
School counselors Anne Lamping and Anna Moskal, who organized the event, emphasized the importance of connecting students to their community’s agricultural roots.
“We are so grateful to all of the volunteers who took time out of their day to share their knowledge and experiences with our students,” said Lamping. “Their willingness to engage with our kids made this day truly special and meaningful.”
Moskal added, “Ridgefield has such a rich tradition of farming and agriculture, and it’s important for our students to understand and appreciate that history. Events like this help students see how these traditions continue to impact our community today.”
Through experiences like Agriculture Day, South Ridge Elementary continues to foster curiosity, appreciation, and a deeper connection between students and the community they call home.