By Blake Jackson
Kentucky schools are invited to dig into gardening and culinary fun by joining the 2025 School Garden Salsa Challenge at the Kentucky State Fair. This hands-on competition encourages students to grow ingredients, create a unique salsa recipe, and present their dish to a panel of state leaders.
Schools will plant tomatoes, onions, and peppers in school gardens throughout the summer. Using these fresh ingredients, they’ll develop an original salsa recipe to be judged during the State Fair.
Judges include Agriculture Commissioner Jonathan Shell, Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman, and Commissioner of Education Robbie Fletcher.
The winning school will receive a special visit from all three leaders during "All In for Ag Education Week," set for September 15–19, 2025. The competition connects agriculture, nutrition, and education in a creative way that allows students to learn by doing.
To help teachers guide students through the growing process, the Kentucky Department of Agriculture created the “Teacher Grow Guide.” This step-by-step resource provides weekly tips for planting and maintaining a successful salsa garden using simple and engaging instructions.
“The challenge brings agriculture and education together in a fun and flavorful way,” said an organizer with the Department of Agriculture. “We want students to understand where their food comes from and enjoy learning.”
Schools must register by May 20 to participate. More details and the sign-up form are available on the official School Garden Salsa Challenge page.
From planting seeds to presenting salsa, this challenge offers Kentucky students a chance to connect with agriculture and culinary creativity. It’s a flavorful opportunity to grow skills and pride in their schools and communities.
Photo Credit: kentucky-state-fair
Categories: Kentucky, Business