Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — Gulf Shores City Schools are launching a week-long celebration focused on healthy eating and nutrition education. The district will host Eat the Harvest Week across all three of its campuses. Students will learn about the benefits of consuming fresh, locally sourced produce. The initiative aims to make nutrition education both fun and engaging for young learners.

The celebration will take place from November 3 through November 7. During this week, students will sample different fruits and vegetables each day. The produce will be organized by color groups including red, orange, yellow, green, and blue or purple options. This approach helps students understand the variety of nutrients available in different colored foods.

The district's Nutrition and Wellness Committee is leading the initiative. Students and staff members are encouraged to wear clothing that matches each day's featured color. Classrooms that show the highest participation rates will receive special recognition for their efforts. The program connects to the district's broader commitment to student wellness and hands-on learning experiences.

A highlight of this year's event will be the Auburn Extension Nutrition Bus. The mobile education unit will visit Gulf Shores Elementary School on November 3 and 4. The bus provides interactive lessons and demonstrations about healthy eating. Students will also participate in tastings and learn about food sourcing.

The nutrition bus offers children a unique opportunity to understand where their food comes from. Through hands-on activities, students learn how to make healthier food choices. The mobile classroom makes nutrition education accessible and memorable for young students.

Dr. Matt Akin serves as Superintendent of Gulf Shores City Schools. He expressed enthusiasm about the program's impact on students. Akin noted that Eat the Harvest makes nutrition both fun and engaging. He emphasized how the program helps students connect their food choices to their overall health and learning abilities.

The superintendent also thanked Auburn Extension for their partnership. He said the organization shares the district's passion for promoting student wellness. This collaboration demonstrates how community partnerships can enhance educational programs.

The district incorporates locally sourced produce into its nutrition education efforts. Schools utilize a greenhouse to provide hands-on learning experiences. These resources help students understand the journey from farm to table. The program reinforces important lessons about sustainability and healthy living.

Local media and community members are invited to visit during the celebration. Visitors can observe students tasting new vegetables and participating in color-themed activities. The Auburn Extension Nutrition Bus will provide additional visual interest. The event showcases the district's commitment to wellness, community involvement, and youth empowerment.

Additional information about Eat the Harvest Week is available on the district website. The Gulf Shores City Schools Child Nutrition Department maintains details about the program. Community members can learn more about ongoing wellness initiatives through these resources.

For more information, visit the Eat the Harvest website.