Grow NE is a Beyond School Bells program that supports afterschool and summer Expanded Learning Opportunities related to Food Systems – gardening, agriculture, local foods, and so much more. Grow NE contracts and technical assistance are offered to support high school student leadership of afterschool and summer clubs and activities.
The goal of Grow NE is to empower Nebraska's young leaders to engage in and become leaders of local food systems, from preparing gardens to composting food waste. Grow NE contracts can support program needs to achieve this goal including student and staff stipends, garden supplies and technology, and club events and field trips.
For the 2025-26 academic year, Beyond School Bells is broadening the scope of Grow NE support to include 4 tracks of programming: Innovative Agriculture, Local Food Systems, Sustainable Growing, and Afterschool to Table. Programs can apply for a single track up to $5,000; all tracks require HS leadership participation in the National Geographic Slingshot Challenge. BSB can provide direct support and TA as needed.
Learn More About Grow NE
If you have questions, submit them to Alexus Hansen (ahansen@nebraskachildren.org) or Dakota Staggs (dstaggs@nebraskachildren.org).
