By Flow Hansmeier –
At Ventura Charter School, the 5th grade classes have just completed an engaging and impactful unit focused on Esperanza Rising. Throughout this unit, students learned about agriculture, farm worker rights, and human rights on a global scale.
To bring these lessons to life, the entire 5th grade took a field trip to explore local produce storage coolers in Oxnard, where they had the opportunity to meet food workers and immigration officers who manage pests and insects in the food supply.
Next, the students visited the Port of Hueneme to learn about the community’s food imports and exports, gaining insight into the vast network of agriculture in Ventura County.
As the unit continued, students interviewed local experts, including former reporter and agricultural worker John Krist, who presented the annual crop report. A representative from Friends of Field Workers, a local nonprofit, also spoke about the current proposed field worker housing in Ventura. Both presenters deepened students’ understanding of the struggles and contributions of farm workers.
Inspired by their learning, the students decided to fundraise for Friends of Field Workers, showing their support for those who make a vital impact on the agricultural industry.
Adding an artistic touch to the unit, local artist, business owner, and Patagonia employee Daniella Manini presented to the class about her printmaking process. Her presentation resonated deeply with the students, as they had been learning about ARTIVISM—activism through art. Encouraged by Manini’s message, the students created artistic posters with human rights quotes, which will be displayed at the upcoming fundraising event.
The event took place on Thursday, January 30th at Ventura Charter School. The 5th graders hosted an Empty Bowls Fundraiser celebration to showcase their learning and raise funds for Friends of Field Workers.
As part of the event, students created 125 handmade clay bowls, thanks to the generosity of CSUCI Art Director and ceramics teacher Marianne McGrath, who donated the clay, glaze, and firing of the bowls. Local farmers’ market stands donated produce, and students served soup made from these ingredients in their handcrafted bowls. All donations went directly to Friends of Field Workers.
This event was not just about raising funds – it was about raising awareness. Students learned that over 40,000 people are involved in the agriculture and food business here in Ventura County, and the importance of understanding this vital industry cannot be overstated.
Through this project, students not only gained an appreciation for agriculture but also learned the power of giving back and supporting their community.
Students served up homemade soup in their handcrafted bowls, made with fresh produce donated by local farmers’ market stands.
https://venturacharterschool.org/
