
“The dedicated intentional time to spend together as a team to strategize on things we’ve been talking about separately for years.” - 2022 Institute Participant
Farm & Sea to School Action Planning
During the program, teams will have dedicated time and support to develop a comprehensive Farm & Sea to School Action Plan for their school or district.
The action plans focus on integrating food, wellness, and gardening into standards-based curricula, enhancing local procurement, and increasing student, family, and community engagement. Each plan is tailored to address the specific needs and opportunities of the community. Participants will gain access to valuable resources and support at the school, community, and state levels.
Coaching
Teams are paired with an experienced coach from the Maine Farm to School Network. Your coach will assist in designing and implementing your action plan, acting as a key resource to connect you and your team with the support needed for success. Teams will have ongoing communication and meetings with this coach throughout the school year to assist in implementing and adapting action planning to support the specific goals of the school.
Skill Building
Participants will engage in workshops tailored to their school-specific roles and receive support from technical assistance providers to strengthen their action plans. Learn from peers and Farm to School advocates, leaving the program feeling empowered and equipped to tackle challenges.
Networking and Support
Individuals and teams will have access to a broad network of Farm to School stakeholders, providing opportunities to share innovations, discuss challenges, and connect with others across the state. You will learn about various programs and funding options that can support the sustainability and growth of your initiatives. Become part of a collaborative network that encourages ongoing support and engagement. Participating teams will also join a growing alumni network, offering continued opportunities beyond the year-long Institute program.
School teams emerge from the Institute year with:
A sustainable, equitable, and place-based farm to school plan with commitment across the school community.
Learn about tools, techniques, and best practices connected to Maine’s unique food and farming ecosystem and the school’s community/region.
Ongoing access to technical resources and financial opportunities to support the program into the future.
Build new relationships and strengthen existing relationships across Maine’s Farm & Sea to School movement
A clear vision, purpose, and set of values for the school food community
Foster stronger connections across the 3’s of the Farm to School: Classroom, Cafeteria, and Community.