Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) Superintendent Emily Anne Gullickson visited Prince Edward County Public Schools (PECPS) on October 9 for the 2025 “Crunch Heard ‘Round the Commonwealth” celebration, held during Virginia’s Farm to School Week.
The visit began with a warm welcome and a brief history of the area presented by Dr. Chip Jones, Superintendent of PECPS. Following the introduction, Superintendent Gullickson and VDOE staff walked to the elementary school, where they were greeted by some of our youngest Eagles with a cheerful song.
In celebration of the day, Pre-K students gathered around a young apple tree as Mr. Bruce Davis, School Nutrition Supervisor, explained how apples grow from seeds. Students then helped “plant” the tree by adding soil around its base, creating a hands-on learning experience they will not soon forget.
“It was an honor to be selected for this celebration,” said Mr. Davis. “I’m proud of all the hard work my staff puts into feeding our Eagles every day. Their dedication ensures our students are healthy, happy, and ready to learn.”
Superintendent Gullickson then read Apple Tree, Apple Tree in the elementary cafeteria to kindergarten students, while other classes watched the story via livestream. At the conclusion of the reading, everyone received an apple and joined together for the highly anticipated “Big Crunch,” a statewide tradition symbolizing the importance of healthy eating and local agriculture.
The visit concluded with VDOE staff enjoying lunch with third-grade Eagles, touring the elementary school’s renovation project, and visiting The Reading Eagle, the division’s literacy bus. Before departing, Superintendent Gullickson selected a piece of student artwork inspired by the day’s events to take back to her office, a special reminder of the creativity and spirit of Prince Edward County students.