Department of Agriculture implements rice in schools pilot program
The Arkansas Department of Agriculture continues to move forward with the implementation of the Arkansas Rice in Schools Pilot Program, an initiative designed to increase the use of Arkansas-grown rice in school meal programs and connect students with local agriculture through classroom learning.
The Arkansas Rice Research and Promotion Board has voted to provide $15,000 in funding to support the pilot program’s implementation. The funding will be used to provide equipment such as rice cookers to participating schools, helping facilitate the integration of Arkansas-grown rice into school meal programs.
“Rice isn’t just part of Arkansas’ economy; it’s part of who we are,” said Gov. Sarah Sanders. “Thanks to this new program, Arkansas students will learn how our farmers turn hard work and innovation into the food that sustains families around the world, and they’ll get to enjoy Arkansas-grown foods in their school cafeterias, helping them to develop healthy eating habits that last a lifetime.”
As part of the pilot phase, 20 Arkansas schools have been selected to participate for the 2025–2026 school year. Additional schools have expressed interest, and the department said it looks forward to seeing many schools participate in the program. Participating schools will feature Arkansas-grown rice in school meals, participate in hands-on cooking demonstrations, and integrate classroom lessons on agriculture and nutrition.
“As Arkansas farmers, we take great pride in growing one of the most nutritious and versatile grains in the world—rice. The governor’s pilot program is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the quality of Arkansas rice while supporting healthier meals for our students,” said Jim Whitaker, chairman of the Arkansas Rice Research and Promotion Board. “The Arkansas Rice Research and Promotion Board is proud to stand behind this effort to feed our children well and strengthen the connection between our farms and schools.”
Each school will host a “demo day” led by program coordinators to introduce rice-based menu options, provide training for cafeteria staff, and engage students with interactive learning opportunities. Students will also participate in taste tests and surveys to help refine recipes for broader statewide use.
The pilot phase will run through spring 2026, with data collected from participating schools to evaluate recipe performance, student feedback, and program impact. Results will be used to guide future statewide expansion and collaboration with food service partners.
“Arkansas is ranked first nationally for rice production, producing nearly 50% of the nation’s rice, and this program highlights how that success can directly benefit our students and schools,” said Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward. “We’re grateful for Gov. Sanders’ leadership in strengthening the connection between agriculture and student nutrition and for ensuring Arkansas-grown products have a place on school lunch trays.”