This workshop will give participants an overview of what Farm to School is, how it can work in your school, and the three components of Farm to School. Overall, Farm to School provides students with access to healthy, local foods, as well as, educational opportunities, such as school gardens, cooking lessons, and farm field trips. Farm to school empowers children and their families to make informed food choices while re-directing schools’ purchasing dollars toward the local economy and contributing to vibrant communities. The Farm to school program practices are different in each community. Farm to school can include Any or All of the following components of the program:
• Procurement: Local foods are purchased, promoted and served in the cafeteria or as a snack or taste-test;
• Education: Students participate in educational activities related to agriculture, food, health or nutrition; and
• School gardens: Students engage in hands-on learning through gardening.
In Arkansas, 47 school districts are using farm to school practices. There is great potential for growth in this area, with agriculture being a vital contribution to the Arkansas economy. Come learn more about Arkansas Farm to School. The presenter is Sarah Lane.