Olathe families are seeing a burst of green in their classrooms as the Johnson County K‑State Extension launches its third annual “Willie and the Salad Bonanza” program. From September 11 through October 27, 140 students from elementary, middle and high schools will plant, tend, and harvest their own spinach, kale and lettuce, turning textbook lessons into hands‑on science.
Program structure and goals
Each participating class receives a limited allotment of seeds. Students decide how often to water, how many seeds to plant, and what type of growing medium to use. The elementary portion focuses on basic plant‑growth concepts, while middle‑ and high‑school teams compete to produce the greatest mass of greens from the smallest volume of soil. The competition encourages careful attention to light, temperature, fertilizer, and even plant‑to‑plant competition.
Extension support and curriculum ties
“It’s tied into curricula the teachers are already teaching, so it’s meant to enhance those curricula,” said Anthony Reardon, horticulture and small farms extension agent for Johnson County. Extension agents visit classrooms to discuss best practices, reinforcing science standards and encouraging stewardship.
Teacher perspective
April Cremer, a 5th‑grade teacher at Tomahawk Elementary, has led the program for three years. “I like that it is a hands‑on learning experience. Kids get to choose everything—how often they water, how many seeds they plant—so they can really see the differences in all of the variables,” Cremer explained. She added that students who grow their own vegetables are more likely to try eating them, fostering healthier habits.
Cremer also noted the program’s value for her school, which has been housed in a temporary building without a permanent garden. “This portable gardening opportunity gives our students real proof of what plants need. If they forget to water or over‑water, they see the results immediately,” she said.
Community impact
Beyond science education, the program strengthens community ties. Parents report pride in seeing their children care for living plants, and the competition element builds teamwork and friendly rivalry. The initiative aligns with broader efforts to promote nutrition, environmental awareness, and practical problem‑solving skills among Kansas youth.
Looking ahead
As the program concludes on October 27, judges will evaluate plant mass and efficiency, awarding recognition to the most successful teams. Organizers hope the experience will inspire continued interest in agriculture, a vital sector for Kansas families and the state economy.
For teachers interested in joining future rounds, contact the Johnson County K‑State Extension office for seed kits and scheduling details.
Original reporting: Johnson County Post (Overland Park) — read the source article.
