Natural State News

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture has announced that applications are now open for the Arkansas Farm to School Institute. This year-long professional development program aims to assist schools in enhancing their farm-to-school initiatives. Schools interested in expanding local food procurement, creating school gardens, and integrating agricultural education into their curriculum are encouraged to apply by February 28, 2025. Up to 15 schools will be selected for participation in the 2025-2026 school year.

The Institute provides training, resources, and hands-on support to educators, administrators, nutrition staff, local farmers, and community partners. Selected schools will benefit from a summer retreat to develop a collaborative action plan for integrating school gardens, local food procurement, and agricultural education. Additionally, each school will receive a $1,000 implementation grant to help execute their farm-to-school action plan and ongoing support throughout the year from Department staff and expert coaches.

"By connecting schools with local food producers and agricultural educators, the Institute supports the growth of farm-to-school programs across Arkansas," said Jessica Chapman, Farm to School and Early Childhood Education Program Coordinator. "This is an exciting opportunity for schools to build lasting programs that benefit their students, communities, and local farmers."

Selected schools can also participate in the Arkansas School Garden Project. This program allows up to five teachers per school to complete a professional development course on school gardening. Upon completion of the course, each teacher will receive a $1,000 grant to enhance their school garden.

Interested schools can apply now for more information at agriculture.arkansas.gov.

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is committed to developing policies and programs for agriculture, forestry, and natural resources conservation in Arkansas. It aims to keep farmers competitive while sustaining natural resources and ensuring safe products for citizens. The department offers its programs without discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability.