Farm Fresh Sharing is an E-Harvest feature spotlighting Contracting Entities (CEs) from Texas and across the country who take part in farm to school activities and answer questions from you. If you are interested in sharing your experiences and inspiring other CEs, please fill out this survey.
This month Farm Fresh Sharing features Lumberton ISD, a small district that serves free breakfast to all students eligible for free or reduced-price meals this year. The 88th Texas Legislature approved funding that enables schools to serve free breakfasts to students eligible for reduced-price school meals.
Q: How often do you serve local foods in your cafeterias?
A: We are fortunate to serve local milk daily. We serve local fruits and veggies pretty routinely.
Q: Have you noticed an increase in meal participation and higher opinions about school meals since you began serving local foods?
A: The students get excited when they hear what they're eating is local and fresh!
Q: What TDA resources, other than the Farm Fresh Network map, have you used to help you with Farm Fresh programming?
A: We applied/opted in for the Local Food for Schools grant, which we are incredibly excited to participate in! We use lots of TDA's resources on our social media to help educate and get the word out to our community, including the Harvest of the Month printable posters, Farm Fresh Challenge stickers, window clings, printables, and activity packets for students.
Q: What inspired you to start Farm Fresh programming?
A: Anything we can do to promote healthy eating and support our local community simultaneously is a win! It's a no-brainer. Honestly, the students love it, especially when we participate in the Farm fresh challenge during the month of October and have taste tests and other engaging activities!
Q: Have you or are you able to support other districts with implementation of Farm Fresh programming? (Support includes mentoring, sharing information, answering questions, etc.)
A: Region 5 is a fantastic region to be in and we are all very collaborative. I have been able to share many fun ideas with colleagues, as well as learning a ton from them, too!
Q: Are any of your local producers a part of the Farm Fresh Network?
A: Yes! Southeast Texas Olive, Doguet's Rice Milling Company, and Johnny Jennings Farm just to name a few!
Q: How long have you been participating in Farm Fresh Programming?
A: I became Child Nutrition Director for our district just last year. I jumped right in, and participated and was able to learn and do more this year. I look forward to this yearly.
Q: Do you use TDA's mapping tool on SquareMeals?
A: Yes, I utilize TDA's Farm Fresh Producers Map. Our Region is also very collaborative and shares what they find and are using as well, which is super helpful.
Q: Do you have a garden?
A: Not currently, but this is a part of my 5-year goal plan! I would love to one day!
Q: What kind of educational activities have you been able to implement as part of or related to the Farm Fresh Initiative?
A: I have found that students absolutely love participating in taste tests! One of their favorites this year was the taste testing of the fruit-infused waters. Not only did it engage our students in a fun activity, but it also educated them about healthier beverage options. By introducing fruit-infused waters ass an alternative to sugary drinks, you're promoting better nutrition and hydration habits among students. This was a huge success, and the students thoroughly enjoyed it.
Q: What advice would you give a CE trying to decide if/how to participate in Farm Fresh programming?
A: Just do it! It's fun and rewarding for both your staff and students.