South Row Elementary Students Embrace ‘Try it Tuesday’
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South Row students sampling fruits, vegetables and learn healthy eating
CHELMSFORD, MA (Apr. 27, 2023) – Sweet. A little sour. Really good.
Such was the consensus of the students of educator Jennifer Rigby’s kindergarten class at the South Row Elementary School after each was served a raw strawberry. It is part of South Row’s ‘Try it Tuesday’ wellness initiative, in which students have the choice of eating a raw fruit or vegetable every other Tuesday morning and providing their critique.
“We’ve had a really positive experience,” said Ms. Rigby, who has taught at South Row for six years. “This is a nice way to start the day.”
The strawberry marked the third week of Try it Tuesday. While it was a popular fruit – 18 of 19 students in Ms. Rigby’s class partook – the first two weeks presented arguably more of a challenge. Students were served a chunk of cantaloupe in the first week, which was met with favorable reviews, then cauliflower two weeks later.
“All of the students were hesitant to try the cauliflower,” said Ms. Rigby. “However, the kids were brave and tried it. To their surprise, many students asked for a second serving because it was so good.
“It’s great to have them try new things, especially at this age,” she added. “I think the kids are more likely to try it at school. At home, they might be more reluctant.”
On Try it Tuesday mornings, the Nutrition staff at South Row prepares bite-sized portions of that day’s fruit or vegetable. Members of the Student Council work in teams to deliver the portions to each classroom.
The students eat, then deliver their verdict.
“The kids have been adventurous, I have to say,” said South Row Principal Terri Gilbert. “Our Nutrition staff was all for it. It’s a way to promote healthy eating and healthy living. It’s been really fun, and we’ve received really positive feedback.”
About Chelmsford Public Schools
The Chelmsford Public School District provides all students with multiple pathways to optimize their own potential for academic excellence, leadership, and social and emotional wellness. The mission of the Chelmsford Public Schools is to educate, engage, prepare, and empower well-rounded and knowledgeable learners to PERSEVERE through challenges, demonstrate RESPECT and INTEGRITY in their words and actions, are DEDICATED to their community, and display EMPATHY as global citizens while discovering and pursuing their full potential. This PRIDE-driven culture enables all members of the school community to support the growth and development of students. For more information, please visit www.chelmsfordschools.org.
