Farm to School Discussion

We had a great meeting with Eryn Davis from the Kansas State Department of Education out of Topeka on May 7th.  We gathered for a roundtable discussion focused on how to get more locally grown foods into our schools. Conversations covered regulations, grants, programs, costs, and creative solutions for connecting local producers with school nutrition programs.

There were so many great ideas shared — from stocking salad bars with fresh vegetables and hard-boiled eggs to exploring opportunities through the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program, Simply Produce, and more.

A huge thank you to everyone who brought their knowledge and passion to the table:

• Kelly Adams, Director of Operations at USD 353
• Jenni Carr from Harper County Extension
• Gavin Beesely from Sumner County Extension
• Princess Ross, local producer
• Shannon Valovka, USD 360 Ag teacher
• Kylie Stout from Shop Kansas Farms

We are excited about the possibilities ahead and grateful for the collaboration and shared vision of supporting local agriculture while feeding our students fresh, nutritious foods!