The Arkansas Department of Agriculture announced a partnership with the USA Rice Federation to expand the Rice in Schools Program by donating 10 commercial rice cookers to schools across the state. The initiative aims to increase students’ access to Arkansas-grown rice and strengthen connections between students and local agriculture.
The expansion is intended to improve meal preparation efficiency and provide nutritious, locally sourced foods for students. According to the official website, the Arkansas Department of Agriculture focuses on the agricultural sector as the state’s leading industry and works to bolster farming while ensuring food safety for consumers.
Governor Sanders said, “Through Arkansas Rice in Schools, a key part of the Arkansas Plate Initiative, we’re increasing the use of Arkansas-grown rice in school meals while strengthening the connection between students, agriculture, and good nutrition (…) I’m grateful to USA Rice for expanding this effort and investing in both our farmers and the next generation.” Peter Bachmann, President and CEO of USA Rice, added, “We are grateful that we have the opportunity to support Governor Sanders’ Rice in Schools Program this year (…) This first of its kind rice initiative will propel Arkansas from not only the top rice producing state, but to the state with the highest utilization rate in its schools. Additionally, the initiative will foster a better connection for students to where their food comes from and increase their understanding around nutrition.” Wes Ward, Cabinet Secretary of Agriculture, said, “USA Rice’s generous donation of these rice cookers will make a real difference for schools and students across Arkansas (…) With Governor Sanders’ strong support for agriculture and nutrition, partnerships like this allow us to connect our farmers to our classrooms and ensure students have access to healthy, Arkansas-grown food.”
The donated equipment will be distributed among ten participating schools identified as needing commercial rice cookers. Twenty schools serving more than 11,400 students daily are involved in the program during the 2025–2026 school year. In addition to equipment donations, USA Rice has provided recipes, educational materials, and technical assistance.
The program is part of broader efforts by the department that include animal care programs, crop management initiatives, forest protection measures such as prescribed fires for land management,and natural resource oversight. The department operates throughout Arkansas with reach into national and global markets.
Ward Central Elementary School was noted as hosting a demonstration day featuring locally grown ingredients. According to the official website, Wes Ward serves as Cabinet Secretary overseeing these initiatives statewide.
For more information about this partnership or other programs offered by the department visit the official announcement.
