Building a brighter future: Edison Middle School to unveil its new farm Friday
BAKERSFIELD, CALIF. (KBAK/KBFX) — Edison School District students will no longer have to travel up to 15 minutes daily, twice daily, to care for their animals at a nearby Foothill High School or private farms.
Thanks to community support and businesses like AERA Energy, teachers can illuminate learning horizons in a new way like never before.
"They will have a chance to learn how to manage a garden and keep it growing. They will also work with animals and learn what it takes to raise healthy herds of livestock. The farm is going to broaden the horizons for our kids, said Edison School District Superintendent Erica Andrews. "Some kids don't even know they are interested in Future Farmers of America (FFA) or agriculture until they are given the chance to experience it."
Students will also learn how to order farm supplies, keep track of inventory, upkeep gardens, and raise their animals through the school's Expanded Learning Program.
The community is invited as the school makes final preparations for its grand opening celebration on Friday, May 26, at 3 p.m. at Edison Middle School located at 721 S. Edison Rd in Bakersfield. The farm is located behind the gym off Edison Highway.
Local dignitaries such as retired Kern County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Mary Barlow, Kern County Supervisor Leticia Perez, students, and other community partners will attend.
"Students within our community do not always have the means to do extra-curricular activities so giving them this farm and garden gives them the chance to try something new and maybe even find a passion," said Nicole Cabe, an aide at Edison Middle School, whose daughter is a sophomore at Foothill High School.
Eyewitness News Mornings Reporter Tony Salazar previewed the farm ahead of its grand opening celebration on Friday.
