Pop-Up Produce at La Primaria Elementary School
By Jean Park
On February 25th, La Primaria Elementary School hosted a farmers’ market in partnership with city of Hope and our Food Roots network of local farmers. Visitors were greeted with music and colorful signs, before making their way towards the produce tables run by fourth and fifth grade students
Having the students help organize the pop-up produce stand makes this farmer’s market a unique and memorable experience for shoppers. One of the students shared a story of how her mother loves to eat green bell peppers as dessert, while another reminisced about eating oranges with his grandmother. From Japanese eggplants to sweet potatoes, this produce stand had something for everyone.
My experience working with La Primaria Elementary School and City of Hope was very memorable. Not only did the students make it such a fun time, but they helped create a welcoming and engaging space. The students adopted leadership roles, so that teachers, parents, and community members could connect and give back to the school.
I also had the opportunity to meet Alan, of City of Hope, who was great to talk to and learn from. He was able to share his knowledge of plants with the students, who were curious about everything. I had a blast working with the students because they were so expressive and bold, which really contributed to the positive atmosphere of the market. I also had the pleasure of meeting Nora Eskew, who is a teacher at La Primaria. She was also incredibly welcoming and very diligent with her students.
The students made the market such a unique and meaningful experience. I was happy I was able to contribute to the positivity of the event. I am really grateful I was able to share that space with everyone and especially, to connect through good food advocacy.
