Ridgefield School District students will soon enjoy fresh, locally grown apples and pears thanks to a collaborative harvest event that brought together families, school district leaders, community members, and local food service partners.
Earlier this week, participants gathered at Brush Berry Farm to harvest more than 450 pounds of fresh apples and pears. The locally grown produce will be served to students throughout Clark County, including students in Ridgefield, Hockinson, Battle Ground, Washougal, and Evergreen school districts.
The event was organized in partnership with Chartwells K-12 and participating school districts as part of an ongoing effort to bring more fresh, locally sourced foods into school cafeterias. In addition to providing students with healthy food options, events like this help connect students and families with the local farms and people responsible for growing their food.
A special thank you goes to Brush Berry Farm for opening its farm to local communities and supporting schools throughout the region, as well as the Battle Ground Public Schools Nutrition Team, whose leadership and planning helped make the event possible.
The partnership between local farms, school districts, and Chartwells demonstrates how collaboration can benefit students and the broader community.
“We endeavor to create not just win-win solutions, but multiple-win situations,” said Hockinson School District Superintendent Steve Marshall. “Chartwells has been more than a food service provider; they have been a partner. Our students receive fresh, local ingredients in their meals, while local farms benefit and strengthen their connection to our schools. This truly is a mutually beneficial relationship, and I am excited to see this partnership continue to grow.”
Washougal School District Superintendent Aaron Hansen also emphasized the importance of the community partnerships that make these opportunities possible.
“Bringing fresh, locally grown produce to our students takes a dedicated community, and we couldn't be more grateful for our incredible community partners,” Hansen said. “The creativity and thoughtful planning behind this event truly highlight how priceless these local connections are for our schools.”
Thank you to everyone who rolled up their sleeves and helped with the harvest! Through partnerships like these, Ridgefield School District is helping bring fresh, local food to students while supporting the farms and communities that make Southwest Washington a great place to live, learn, and grow.