10/31/2026
Dudley Agricultural Advisory Commission celebrates Farm to School Month with local Kindergarten students
DUDLEY — Ninety kindergarten students at Mason Road Elementary School celebrated National Farm to School Month on Friday, Oct. 23, with a special reading of Farm Boots by the Dudley Agricultural Advisory Commission and local officials. Each student received their own copy of the book to take home, helping bring the story of agriculture from the classroom to families across the community.
Commission members Krisanne Koebke and Katie Rozenas-Hanson were joined by Massachusetts State Representative John Marsi and Dudley Selectman Chris Starczewski for the 1 p.m. event. The reading is part of the Commission’s ongoing efforts to promote agricultural literacy and strengthen awareness of the important role farming plays in Dudley’s history, rural character, and future.
“Introducing children to agriculture at a young age helps them understand where their food comes from, appreciate the work of local farmers, and recognize the important role farms play in our community,” said Katie Rozenas-Hanson, Secretary of the Dudley Agricultural Advisory Commission. “Agricultural literacy in the classroom is an investment in the next generation of consumers. By helping students build these connections early, we can encourage them to make informed choices and support local agriculture as they grow.”
Commission member and Dudley farmer, Krisanne Koebke added, "I’m always impressed with the questions the kids ask!"
Representative Marsi shared his enthusiasm for the visit, saying, “I had a wonderful time participating at Mason Road school reading Farm Boots to the Kindergarten class! They asked so many great questions. It's important that they know how important farms are to Dudley!”
Written by Lisl H. Detlefsen, Farm Boots introduces young readers to the rhythms of farm life through joyful rhyming verse. Following farming families through all four seasons, the story explores the many types of boots needed for farm chores and changing weather—from splashing through spring puddles and visiting the summer fair to herding sheep in a snowy winter barn. The book offers an engaging introduction to the people, work, and seasonal activities that make agriculture an essential part of everyday life.
This is the second year the Dudley Agricultural Advisory Commission has organized a Farm to School Month reading and book distribution. By providing every student with a personal copy, the Commission hopes to extend agricultural learning beyond the classroom and into students’ homes, encouraging conversations among children and their families about farming, food, and the value of local agriculture.
The initiative supports the Commission’s broader mission to support local farmers, preserve Dudley’s rural character, and advise town boards on agricultural issues. In addition to promoting agricultural education, the Commission has co-hosted Dudley Agrifest and organized the Dudley Plant Hop, connecting residents with local agriculture and opportunities to engage with the town’s farming community.
Through programs like this annual book distribution, the Dudley Agricultural Advisory Commission continues to invest in agricultural awareness among Dudley’s youngest residents and help cultivate the next generation of informed consumers who understand and value local farms.
About the Dudley Agricultural Advisory Commission
The Dudley Agricultural Advisory Commission supports local farmers, promotes the town’s rural character, and advises town boards on agricultural issues. Through community initiatives and educational programming, the Commission works to increase agricultural awareness and foster connections between Dudley residents and local agriculture.
