We can accomplish our vision through a network of educators, parents, community members, organizations, farmers, and school personnel devoted to creating a healthier, more engaged learning environment for local students through Farm to School education and activities. What constitutes “Farm to School”? Farm to School activities could be, but are not limited to, the following:
o Classroom/cafeter
ia taste tests
o Farmer/farm visits
o Incorporating local produce in the cafeteria/school
o Utilizing school gardens in education
o Nutrition Education
o Cooking demos
o Waste management (i.e. composting)
o Farmer’s markets
o Sustainable Agriculture Ed. The Androscoggin Farm to School Network currently serves as an information and resource sharing venue for those involved or interested in Farm to School efforts in Androscoggin County. There are multiple school garden projects and genuine excitement for potential expansion in the county, but there are a number of challenges that deter progress. Some challenges include a lack of coordinated efforts, limited resources, limited training in curriculum integration and summer maintenance issues. The Androscoggin Farm to School Network could serve as an overarching body and coordinator to “connect the dots” and help identify champions, opportunities, and best practices; provide relevant training and technical assistance; realize efficiencies; and help address long term sustainability. Who is involved? The Network is comprised of a diverse group of Farm to School advocates including teachers, principals, nutrition educators, community nonprofit representatives, school district nutrition service directors, parents, farmers, volunteers, among others. Network meetings are held three times a year at different locations where participants share and learn from one another. A smaller group of individuals from the Network form the Steering Committee, which meets monthly during the academic year and promotes, advocates for, and makes decisions regarding Farm to School opportunities in Androscoggin County.
