State Rep. Cook, Bud | Pennsylvania 50th Legislative District
State Rep. Cook, Bud | Pennsylvania 50th Legislative District
Rep. Bud Cook announced the awarding of grants to two educational institutions within the California Area School District. The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture's Farm-to-School Grant Program provided funding aimed at enhancing agricultural education for students.
The California Area School District (CASD) received a grant totaling $15,000, while the California Academy of Learning Charter School (CALCS) was awarded $10,874. These funds are intended to support their existing agriculture programs which offer students hands-on learning experiences.
Rep. Cook emphasized the importance of these programs: “After visiting on a few occasions, I know California Area students are really benefiting from gaining first-hand experience through the agriculture program,” he stated. He further highlighted the broader benefits by noting, “Every time a young person learns more about farming, about where their food comes from, Pennsylvania gains a smarter consumer.”
The CASD's current curriculum includes activities such as raising chickens and maintaining beehives. These initiatives aim to provide comprehensive agricultural education through practical engagement.
Cook underscored the necessity for public awareness regarding food production processes: “Our groceries don’t just magically appear at supermarkets and restaurants. From time to time, folks need a reminder of the amount of work that goes into maintaining our food supplies,” he said. He believes that such educational programs are essential in ensuring that future generations understand food sourcing and production.
For further information or inquiries about this announcement, Representative Bud Cook's office can be contacted via media representative Jordan Frei at 724-875-8450 or jfrei@pahousegop.com.