MANHATTAN, Kan. – In recognition of Kansas Farm to School programs across the state, Governor Brownback recently proclaimed October as Farm to School Month and the week of October 12 – 16 as Kansas Farm to School Week. National celebrations also occur during these times. Celebrations in Kansas will include efforts focused on showcasing the work producers, teachers and schools do to educate students about agriculture and bring locally grown food into schools.
The National Farm to School organization defines farm to school as any program that connects schools and child care settings with local farms and strives to serve healthful meals in school cafeterias, improve student nutrition, provide agricultural education opportunities and support local and regional farmers and ranchers.
To show support of Farm to School Month and Kansas programs, share information about Farm to School Month with your school or community and utilize Kansas Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom Nutrition Education lesson plans.
Kansas Secretary of Agriculture Jackie McClaskey invites all Kansans during the month of October to engage with the department on social media to help promote Farm to School Month. Follow KDA on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram to learn more about the celebration.
KDA is joined in this initiative by the Kansas State Department of Education.
Please visit the KDA Farm to School website for resources and more information about Kansas programs or contact Education and Events Coordinator Robin Blume at robin.blume@kda.ks.gov or 785-564-6756.
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