our food. Usually, by the time we are done with our visits in the garden, the students are saying things like, “Bye Charlotte! Eat the pests for us!” Local Procurement School gardens pair naturally with local food procurement. When schools source food locally, it does more than enhance meals with fresher, healthier, more flavorful ingredients. It supports the regional economy, keeps food dollars circulating within the community. This helps develop relationships between schools, farmers, and often generational families in the community. This connection helps students see the full story of their food. There have been several times that students have absolutely no idea where their food come from. A salad made with lettuce from a school garden and tomatoes from a nearby farm, becomes a lesson in geography, economics, and sustainability all at once. Bonus, the kids are absolutely more willing to try those foods too! For farmers, supplying schools creates stable, reliable markets. I have seen local procurement programs save generational farmers from having to sell their family owned farm. In turn, schools can establish program that align with their educational goals. For example, highlighting harvest months or exploring local crops. Local procurement also helps schools reduce their carbon footprint, as food travels shorter distances to reach the cafeteria tray- wink, wink for all my earth loving friends out there! Community Relationships School gardens and local procurement help students understand a stronger sense of community. Parents, teachers, school board members, farmers, and local organizations often come together to assist with garden projects or
farm-to-school events. These are often a great opportunity for food nutrition programs to help educate the public about the wonderful work being done in school nutrition. I don’t know about you, but I will always take an opportunity to shout out the amazing work we all do every single day! Some school gardens are able to go above and beyond the cafeteria and will have an excess of produce that is donated to local shelters or food pantries. This is a fantastic opportunity for students to have a tangible way to engage and learn about issues like food justice/injustice and service. There is an amazing program in Lee County Schools, FL that was started by a math teacher as a math project for his students. In their first two years of the garden, they donated hundreds of pounds of fresh produce to the local food bank. Amazing work! School Gardens for the Win When combined, school gardens and local food procurement do far more than add fresh ingredients to school lunches. They help students develop a deeper understanding of the food system, build skills that extend beyond the classroom, and strengthen bonds with the community. The next time you pass a school garden or read about a school serving locally grown apples or bok choy, remember: it’s not just about what’s for lunch. It is about so much more! It’s about cultivating curiosity, nourishing communities, and “planting the seeds” for a more connected and resilient future.
Lauren Couchois, RD, LD, SNS | Lead Dietitian, School Food Rocks I have been in school nutrition for almost 14 years! I am a registered dietitian, earning my bachelor’s degree at Western Carolina University and completing my dietetic internship through Indiana University and Perdue University’ joint program. I am extremely passionate about improving school nutrition through positive dining experiences for students as well as through nutrition education and school gardens.
Powered by FlippingBook