District News

The cafeteria at Como Park Elementary School was buzzing as students enjoyed the school’s annual Harvest Tasting Day with Farmer Marcinelli, which encourages healthy eating habits and a connection to how fruits and vegetables are grown. Students walking into the cafeteria were greeted by Farmer Marcinelli, who is introduced to students as a cousin of principal Molly Marcinelli visiting from the farm. She offered a cup with items like carrots, peppers, zucchini, and garlic bread prepared by PTO volunteers and cafeteria staff. 

"My favorite part of the day is seeing students smile when they meet Farmer Marcinelli,” the principal said. “My second favorite part is when they discover that they really like the veggies and even ask for seconds.  Priceless!" A tradition for approximately 15 years, Marcinelli said the day is a celebration of the work that has gone into expanding the garden from a few raised flower beds to an expanded school community-wide operation that goes on during and even beyond the school year. “It’s the perfect collaboration between staff and families,” she said. 

Crops and flowers are planted in the garden, overseen by teacher Jacquelyn Galas, in the spring. Over the summer, families sign up to work for a week at a time to ensure a supply of fruits and vegetables for the day and for additional lunches through the fall. The annual event has been highlighted in recent years with media coverage as well as appreciation from recent Lancaster High School graduates.