“they make it look so easy!”…
…Was what we said when we saw the ease with which all students (particularly the elementary students) sorted their waste into trash and ‘pig bins’ when they were done eating. Our tour took us to both Hudson secondary school and Adams elementary Spanish immersion school, where we had the chance to see them in action. At both locations, our guide Ron Pierson, the lunchroom staff and custodial staff were very open to showing us around and answering our questions.
The day was made even better when we got to taste a ‘smart’ cookie that SPPS offers to all students (‘smart’ because in includes carrots and other nutritional additives but tastes just like a raisin cookie!).
Bringing their food waste to a hog farm has taken the cooperation of district staff, the school administration, the students and the farmers – but the success of the program is great example for teams looking at similar options. SPPS has learned ways to make implementation of the program easier, but the cooperation of all partners is key!
We are eager to share both video and photos of the tour with all teams as well as names of who to contact if you’re interested in this program. We are also happy to work with any teams that would like to take a tour themselves at a later date.
A big thank you to Redwood Falls team who asked great questions and showed interest in their program. Also a big thank you to Ron Pierson at SPPS district who provided great information and insight into the program!
