Kiley Reynolds at Whittier Middle School (Lisa Boylan accepted the award on Kiley’s behalf) will receive $3,429.65 for her proposal, “Engagement and Sustainability.”

With the funds, Kiley will purchase three aero gardens, seed pods, planters, and potting soil that will be used by students in the Gardening Club, Cooking Club, 7th grade CORE class, and all FACS (Family and Consumer Science) classes. In the application, Kiley wrote, “Through these clubs and classes, we will teach students to grow and can their own food to eliminate wastefulness of vegetables that are unable to be used right away. They will learn about fertilization and disease control using household items like coffee grounds and milk. Students will prepare meals with vegetables and herbs they have grown using easy, middle-school recipes. We will increase engagement by providing food and inexpensive meal solutions for students who experience food insecurity. Spots within the Cooking and Gardening Clubs may be specifically reserved for students with behavior or attendance concerns to promote participation and a greater feeling of acceptance at school.”