Summary 2023 — Hawaii

State Contact

Innovative Programming

Where Would We Be Without Seeds is for grades K – 2 and integrates science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) while introducing agricultural careers. Students explore seeds, plant cycles, and growing plants for food as it plants the seed that agriculture is a viable career option. Since its inception in 2016, 4,867 students have learned about agriculture through the Where Would We Be Without Seeds program.

Veggie U Hawai'i is a standards-based curriculum for grades 3 – 5 that combines science, health, language arts, and math into an engaging educational experience for students. Using a garden kit, students engage in hands-on studies emphasizing the process of seed-to-harvest while incorporating multiple subject area disciplines. HAF's inaugural ag education program, Veggie U Hawai'i has impacted 10,397 students since 2014.

The Young Entrepreneurs Program allows middle and high school students to create real-world small businesses with the goal of creating locally-sourced value added agricultural products. The student teams build a business end-to-end, from concept to business plan, production execution, marketing, sales, and fulfillment with all profits remitted back to the school. Since 2018, 1,094 students have participated in YEP and nearly $25,000 has been remitted back to the schools.

Major Program Impacts or Outcomes

Not reported for 2023

Program Leader Biosketch

As Director of Grants and Education, Ms. Stanton oversees all of HAF's ag education programs by collaborating with teachers and other stakeholders and ensuring that all data is collected and reported accurately. She provides leadership and direction on obtaining private and government funding for the organization. and other appropriate assistance to ensure HAF's educational programs are implemented. She holds a master's degree from the University of Hawai'i in Educational Foundations and graduated from the George Washington University with a BA degree in International Relations. She is experienced in managing educational programs and volunteers, and has experience working directly with school administrators, teachers and students.