Who needs to be involved?  You Do!

TEACHERS: When teachers in a district work together on this program, it increases the chances of the program’s success and ensures that the highest number of students will benefit.

PARENTS: Parents are advocates, learners and change agents. Besides initiating the effort, parent volunteers are leading planning efforts currently underway and will be instrumental in promoting and participating in a variety of activities and events.

FARMERS:  Farmers put the “Farm” in Farm to School.  We need local farmers to help us understand the most effective way to plan, purchase, receive and prepare fresh local foods.  Farmers are also an integral part of teaching students about food production and how farming is connected to our history and culture.

SCHOOL FOOD SERVICE PERSONNEL: As an important ally, food service leaders and staff reinforce nutritional messages, provide and prepare fresh meals and snacks, work with classrooms to develop new foods to serve in the cafeteria, and provide a variety of resources to classroom teachers.

SCHOOL AND SCHOOL DISTRICT ADMINISTRATORS: It is crucial that Principals and school district administrators support the efforts of the families and teachers involved in this program. The CSD Board has approved exploring the program’s potential and offer critical resources in planning and development.

COMMUNITY MEMBERS: There is a diverse group of partners who serve the specific needs of the program, as well as community members who have a natural interest in the health of children. The Decatur Farm to School Initiative includes local farmers, local chefs, community liaisons from local universities, and city and neighborhood organizations.   Any group or individual who is eager to work with schools on projects that contribute to the well-being of the community can become involved.

LOCAL AND STATE POLICY MAKERS: Policy makers help sustain effective programs and ensure that local, state and national policy support the goals of Farm to School programs. They can publicly promote the program and bring others on board to support and sustain such programs.

How do I get involved?

Learn more and support national initiatives!  The Farm to School Network is a growing movement that is supported by eight regional lead agencies.  It offers training and technical assistance, information services, networking, and support in policy and media and marketing activities.  You can learn more at www.farmtoschool.org.

Become a Decatur F2S Partner! Formal and informal partners play a vital role in the initiative.  Current Farm to School Partners include Georgia Organics, the Oakhurst Community Garden Project, the Decatur Education Foundation, Decatur Active Living and the Decatur Farmer’s Market.

Join a committee and get to work! There are currently five committees supporting the planning efforts of the Decatur Farm to School Initiative.  Committees meet and plan activities as needed or issue a call for one-time volunteer activities.  The committees are:

• Curriculum Integration
• School Menu and Procurement
• Fundraising and Grants
• Communication and Outreach
• Research and Evaluation

Get to work on your own!  While the Decatur Farm to School Initiative team is busy planning a formal program, there are lots of current opportunities.  You can plan projects at neighborhood schools in conjunction with school administration, the School Leadership Teams, PTAs and other parents.  Connect with schools and partners at http://www.decatur-city.k12.ga.us/ and www.decaturga.com.