From soil to soul: food systems curriculum for 5th graders

The state of food systems in the United States significantly impacts our environment, public health, and economy. Addressing issues of sustainability, nutrition-related health concerns, and agricultural policy, often requires broad social awareness and change. The primary education arena provides an opportunity to test the effectiveness of curricula addressing these topics. This thesis examines the delivery and impact of a food systems curriculum. A pre-survey assessed fifth-grade students' initial values and knowledge of food systems, nutrition, and physical well-being. Curricula was designed and delivered to build the capacity of students to make informed food choices. Parent interviews and surveys provided further data on household values, income, and other variables of interest. Students' learning outcomes were measured after ten weeks of immersion in the curriculum. Findings indicated a moderate increase in knowledge but a substantial level of interest and engagement in the topic of food systems.