Mission CISD brings unique fresh fruit and vegetables to the classroom
Mission CISD - Elementary students at Mission Consolidated Independent School District are swapping out their chips and candy for fresh fruits and vegetables, all thanks to the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP). The Mission CISD Child Nutrition Program officially announced this initiative in the 2019 – 2020 school year, providing unique fresh produce for students during the school day.
The program was developed through a grant funded by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and has since gained popularity among the campuses, staff, and students. The program has been successful in introducing elementary school children to a variety of produce that they otherwise might not have had the opportunity to sample.
“The main thing is introducing students to something new so that they can use our fruits and vegetables as healthy snacks, and not necessarily thinking of chips and candy as the items for them to choose from,” states Mr. Enrique Alvarez, Cantu Elementary Principal. “For example, dragon fruit, certain types of pears, broccoli, and even bell peppers are potential selections that they may not be exposed to at home. That’s the main thing, getting students to try it.”
Not all children's taste buds are the same. Providing a variety of items promotes learning opportunities and conversations among students. Encouraging healthier environments through nutrition education.
“Recently, we provided bell peppers to the students, and I really wanted to get their feedback since many of them associate the peppers with a spicy flavor. I was surprised that many of them enjoyed it. After someone takes that first bite, the students realize that it’s not spicy and try it as well.” shared Mr. Alvarez. “Given the fact that we have very high rates of obesity in the Rio Grande Valley, the Fresh Fruits, and Vegetables Program is something we strive to push.”
To minimize interruptions to the school day, teachers have incorporated classroom activities for those students who enjoy their healthy snacks in the classroom. For example, silent reading or "fruit of the day".
“This week, the students were surprised when they received the red d’anjou pear as their snack. They were engaged and asked many questions, about what it was and where it was from.” shared Mara Zul Orozco, Second Grade Teacher at Alton Elementary School. “One thing I've noticed is that the students get super excited towards snack time. It’s something that they look forward to all day. I know most of our kids don’t bring their own snacks, so for them, it's a plus”.
Students participating in the FFVP program recognize the efforts of Mission CISD, and the positive outcomes of eating high-quality nutritious produce.
“The snacks we get in school are very good” shares Emmy Garcia, Second Grade student at Alton Elementary. “I like them because they are different every day.”
Due to grant restrictions, Mission CISD Child Nutrition Program currently offers the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) at the following sites: Alton Elementary, Cantu Elementary, Castro Elementary, Leal Elementary, O'Grady Elementary, Pearson Elementary, and Waitz Elementary.
The Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) is an important tool in an effort to combat childhood obesity. FFVP is consistent with and supports the Health and Medicine Division (HMD) of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine’s recommendations to provide healthier snack choices in schools.
For more information on the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program contact the Mission CISD Child Nutrition Program at (956) 323-3800.