Blue Ridge Elementary School (BRES) opened its Bears Farm and Arts Mini Famer’s Market this fall.
“Produce is harvested from the BRES school gardens and sold in the market at affordable prices in order to encourage school families and community members to eat healthy and have access to healthy vegetables,” Assistant Principal Gini Tipton said. “In addition to vegetables, our market contains fresh eggs from the BRES chickens.”
Tipton explained that the eggs are candled by Teresa Tate, the school’s STEAM teacher.
“We also have garden art for sale in our Bears Farm and Arts including bird feeders made of dried fruits, fire starters made from recycled paper and old candles, as well as handmade paper items,” Tipton said. “Concrete garden and patio items as well as bird feeders and baths are included in the arts section. Many new pieces are coming soon as students stain and seal them (only food grade stains and sealers are used to ensure bird’s health!). Also coming soon are Christmas ornaments!”
Fifth grade students helped to create a name and design for the market, and Ace Hardware helped the students create the display. The fifth grade students then assembled it.
The funds from the market will help the school continue their STEAM program by replenishing gardens, purchasing supplies and maintaining the current STEAM initiatives.
Fifth graders are working with Math and Science teacher Barbara King to monitor sales, prices and profits.
All items and pictures will be posted to the school’s Facebook page weekly when there are new items available. Those wishing to purchase items from the market can go into the BRES lobby and purchase items in the office. They must wear a mask and have their temperature taken. The school will also offer curbside pick-up. Those wishing to purchase via curbside can call the office at 706-632-5772.