Spud Fun

Spud Fun

David Sparks Ph.D.
David Sparks Ph.D.
“Which country is the largest potato producer? The United States? Unfortunately not.” In Mrs. Tune’s second-grade class at Grace Elementary in southeastern Idaho, kids are getting schooled on potatoes. “The reason we are talking about potatoes is because, today was the last day, before we get out for two weeks for potato harvest.” Nestled in the Gem Valley of Caribou County, the small town of Grace sits in the heart of Idaho’s famous potato crop. "We are one of the few schools that continue to do that. I just thought it would be fun to continue to do some potato activities. This is the first year I have done it. How many different potato varieties are there in the world? 2000 to 3000? 100 or 200? or 4000 to 5000? That's what this is. 4000 to 5000 different varieties.” The first certified seed potatoes were raised in Grace in 1943 and Grace has become the second largest certified seed growing area in the state of Idaho and is known nationwide for its high quality production. and today the seed is sold throughout six neighboring states and even Hawaii. Teacher, April Tune says most of the 13 kids in her second grade class come from families connected to the potato industry. Learning about spuds is fun for students. "What you need to do is Mr. potato head. Yay.” The final exercise, create Mr. potato head. Collect the prize. And get ready for two weeks off.
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