About
The Arizona Farm to School Network aspires to inspire systemic promotion and implementation of farm to school and farm to early childhood education priorities around the state of Arizona. As a network, we work to strengthen the connection between community, state, and nationwide efforts in pursuit of increased access to local food, school gardens, and food education to improve childrens health, strengthen relationships with local producers, and cultivate thriving communities.
Our Vision
All children and educational communities have access to local foods nourishing the minds and bodies of youth in order to contribute to a healthy and supportive community.
Our Goal
Our goal as a network is to increase the connection between local farms and school cafeterias, including early childhood learning centers and K-12 schools, through procurement support, nutrition and culinary education, and school garden resources.
Community of Practice
A Community of Practice (CoP) is a monthly meeting for educators, local stakeholders, and community members committed to advancing Farm to School initiatives. Our Arizona Network has two CoP meetings where everyone is welcome to join!
Local Food in Schools
Sessions led by Local Food Chairs:
Dionne Washington
Rachel Gomez Acosta
The Local Food in Schools Community of Practice guides participants through the local procurement process in a series of monthly meetings. Topics include Menu Planning, Farmer Introductions, Seasonal Produce Planning, Classroom Connections, and more!
School Garden + Education
Sessions led by School Garden Chair:
Interim Lead: Stacy Evans
The School Garden Community of Practice provides support in connecting hands-on learning objectives with classroom standards in a school garden setting. These sessions are perfect for any level of experience and are connected to the local growing seasons in Arizona.