By Jamie Martin
The New Jersey Department of Agriculture (NJDA) is highlighting the 15th annual Jersey Fresh Farm to School Week and the third Agricultural Literacy Week with three special visits honoring farms and schools that connect students to fresh, local food.
Events take place September 22–26 and spotlight the strong partnerships between New Jersey farmers and school districts.
The celebration begins on Monday, September 22, when NJDA will present the Farmer Recognition Award to Norz Hill Farm in Somerset County. Students will guide officials on a farm tour before the award ceremony.
On Wednesday, September 24, the department will award the NJ Farm to School Academy Pilot scholarship to the Camden City School District at Cooper’s Poynt Family School. This visit includes a stop at the Community Farmers Market, which will also celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and recognize local farmers.
The final visit occurs on Friday, September 26, at The Cranbury School in Middlesex County, where the Best in New Jersey Farm to School Award will be presented to the Cranbury School District. Students will showcase hands-on activities during lunch service as part of the festivities.
State leaders, including Secretary Edward Wengryn, NJDA Division of Food and Nutrition Director Rose Chamberlain, and Farm to School Coordinator Nicole Broadwater, will join local officials at each event.
Farm to School Week underscores how local procurement improves school meals while supporting farmers. More than 600 schools across New Jersey now purchase local foods, over 700 districts highlight seasonal produce through “Harvest of the Month” promotions, and nearly 350 districts link cafeteria programs with healthy eating education and farm field trips.
Established in 2010, Jersey Fresh Farm to School Week celebrates efforts to bring locally grown fruits and vegetables to students statewide. Agricultural Literacy Week complements these efforts by teaching K–5 students about the value of New Jersey agriculture and the importance of eating fresh, local foods.
Photo Credit: farm-to-school
Categories: National