EMPOWERING SCHOOL STORIES OF INNOVAT
FARM-TO-SCHOOL & LOCAL SOURCING One of the most impactful ways school nutrition professionals are improving meal quality is through farm-to-school initiatives and local sourcing. By bringing fresh, locally grown ingredients into cafeterias, these professionals are doing more than feeding students nutritious meals – they are supporting local farmers, building community partnerships, and fostering sustainability and regional economic growth. “Partnering with three small independent growers has developed over just two years into nine growers, all who operate from a love for land and honest toil. These farmers are a crucial piece in the food system solutions for our state.” - Karla Sawvell, Huron School District 2-2, South Dakota “At our schools we are using Fork Farm Hydroponic towers to grow our own herbs and lettuces. The Flex Farm uses up to 98% less land and water than traditional agricultural land. At Morris Elementary the students are growing these as part of their curriculum. The cafeterias use the produce in their menus and on salad bars.” - Shannon Gagliardo, Lenox Public Schools, Massachusetts “At Red Creek Elementary, we’ve partnered with Schleis Farms LLC’s Adopt-a-Cow program in Kewaunee, WI to bring agriculture into the cafeteria. Recently, we hosted a Farm-to-School Lunch Celebration featuring locally sourced foods, ensuring our students experience the freshest ingredients while supporting regional farmers and businesses. We also work closely with the Extension Program to bring additional nutrition education into classrooms through the Harvest of the Month initiative. Through virtual farm tours, Dairy Council lessons, and engaging videos in our cafetorium, students get a front-row seat to the farm-to-table journey!” - Connie Seiber, School District of Black River Falls, Wisconsin “Over 14 years I have been committed to improving school meals. Recently, we have emphasized farm-to-school, including going to the Alaska Southeast Farmers Summit to speak with farmers about barriers they had in getting into schools. We are acting as liaisons to incorporate farm-to-school in Alaska and not just our school. We are working towards inclusion in as many schools as we can.” - Carlee Johnson McIntosh, Petersburg Borough School District, Alaska
BY LAKYRE’A JANAE LE
School nutrition professionals are unsung heroes who work tirelessly during the school day to ensure students have access to healthy, nutritious meals that fuel their success. Across the country, these dedicated individuals are going above and beyond to transform dining experiences for students, innovate within their roles, overcome challenges, and create lasting impact in their communities. The following stories showcase the commitment and remarkable efforts of school nutrition professionals who are redefining what it means to serve school meals.
ICN FARM TO SCHOOL WEBINARS
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