By Scout Nelson
Farm to School is an initiative that strengthens the connection between schools, students, and local food producers. According to the National Farm to School Network, this program promotes healthy eating by changing food purchasing and educational practices in schools and early childhood education settings. The core elements of a Farm to School program include:
- Local food procurement
- School or youth gardens
- Education
These elements help communities access fresh, local foods while teaching students about where their food comes from and how it is grown. Farm to School also provides educational opportunities that highlight nutrition, sustainable farming practices, and local agriculture.
Beef to School (B2S) is a more specialized version of Farm to School that focuses specifically on incorporating local beef into school meal programs. B2S has two components:
- Local beef served in school lunch programs
- Beef education in the classroom
SDSU Extension provides resources to help K-12 school districts implement Beef to School, such as the Frequently Asked Questions About Beef to School in South Dakota publication and the 4-H Adopt-A-Cow: Beef Curriculum.
These initiatives promote healthier, locally sourced food for students while encouraging them to learn about the agricultural process and appreciate the food on their plates. By involving students in these programs, Farm to School and Beef to School initiatives are helping to foster a deeper connection between young people and the food system.
Photo Credit:istock-123ducu
Categories: South Dakota, Livestock, Beef Cattle