Q: What is Hands On: Real-life Lessons for Middle School Classrooms?

A: Hands On: Real-life Lessons for Middle School Classrooms is a hands-on, interdisciplinary curriculum that teaches students key food safety concepts and practices while meeting state curriculum standards for core subject areas.

Q: Where has the Hands On: Real-life Lessons for Middle School Classrooms program been implemented?

A: The Hands On: Real-life Lessons for Middle School Classrooms program is currently operational in middle schools across 26 states.

Q: What if Hands On: Real World Lessons for Middle School Classrooms has not been implemented in my state?

A: If you are interested in implementing and there is not a curriculum for your state, please e-mail us at handson@gmaonline.org.

Q: Why is Hands On: Real-life Lessons for Middle School Classrooms important?

A: Every year, food-borne illnesses cause an average of 3,000 deaths per year and amount to an estimated $37 billion annually in healthcare. Adolescent students are generally overlooked when it comes to food safety education. Research shows that many adolescents prepare snacks and meals in the home and will soon be prime candidates for employment in the food service industry. Therefore, it is important to reach this population and ensure that they are familiar with food safety techniques and are able to implement these techniques.

Q: Who developed Hands On: Real-life Lessons for Middle School Classrooms?

Dr. Jennifer Richards developed Hands On and served from 2007-2017 as Director of the Hands On program at the University of Tennessee.  Dr. Richards is an experienced middle school classroom teacher with extensive research experience in developing, validating, and evaluating interdisciplinary curricula and teacher professional development. You can reach Dr. Richards through the main Hands On contact email at handson@gmaonline.org.

Q: How do I implement this program at my school or in my classroom?

A: Review the Hands On curriculum for your state. Contact the Hands On team at handson@gmaonline.org to schedule a training date for your team and possible implementation dates for your students. Each school/team of teachers is different, and we will work with you to determine what training method works best for your team!

Q: Who do I contact for more information about the Hands On curriculum?

A: Contact the Hands On team at handson@gmaonline.org.