Arkansas Honors Eight Schools for Garden Programs

The state recognizes local school gardens with cash awards during Farm to School Month.

Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Homeschooling

Bold vector editorial illustration of a metal watering can next to a raised vegetable garden bed. — The Arkansas Department of Agriculture awarded eight schools for their outstanding farm-to-school garden programs throughout the state in October. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Arkansas Department of Agriculture has named eight schools as winners of the 2026 Arkansas Grown School Garden of the Year Contest. The awards, presented in partnership with Farm Credit, celebrate successful farm-to-school activities throughout the state.

Why it matters

The recognition coincides with October being designated as Arkansas Farm to School Month. It aims to highlight the role of gardens in public and private K-12 education, early childhood facilities, and alternative learning environments.

The eight winning schools received prizes of $500 and $1,000 for their efforts. WILD About Learning Academy in Bentonville, which serves children from six weeks through five years old, earned the Best Education Garden award.

The players

Arkansas Department of Agriculture

This state agency oversees agricultural industry standards, conservation programs, and rural development initiatives across Arkansas.

WILD About Learning Academy

Located in Bentonville, this educational facility specializes in early childhood development for children aged six weeks through five years.

Farm Credit

This network of borrower-owned lending institutions provides credit and financial services to farmers, ranchers, and rural businesses.

The details

The contest honors schools for their commitment to farm-to-school initiatives and active gardening programs. Other winning institutions include Carolyn Lewis Elementary, Yellville-Summit Schools, Nemo Vista High School, Little Rock Christian Academy, Pulaski Heights Elementary, North Little Rock 6-Agricultural & Veterinary Science Elementary, and Glenview Elementary.

October 2026 marks Arkansas Farm to School Month.

Culture Shift

This state contest follows the pattern set by the National Farm to School Network by incentivizing hands-on agricultural education in local classrooms. The move underscores a growing societal emphasis on sustainable living and teaching children the origins of their food supply.

These awards provide participating schools with additional funding to maintain and expand their existing garden infrastructure. Residents and parents can expect to see continued or enhanced garden-based curriculum and outdoor learning opportunities at these winning sites.

The takeaway

Integrating gardening into the school curriculum offers children a practical way to learn about nutrition and agricultural science. Schools looking to emulate these winners can often find grant resources and partnerships through state agricultural departments to support similar projects.