Sangamon Sun

The Sangamon County Board has approved the creation of the Farm to School Pilot Program, a initiative aimed at providing healthier meal options for students by connecting local farmers and schools. State Representative Wayne Rosenthal (R-Morrisonville) expressed his enthusiasm for the program and highlighted its benefits during a meeting with farmers, teachers, and board members from Pawnee CUSD 11 school district.

Representative Rosenthal emphasized the program's focus on promoting local Illinois agriculture and offering cost-neutral solutions to provide students with healthier food options. He commended the community and local farmers for their enthusiasm and eagerness to use fresh, local ingredients for Pawnee students.

As part of the program, the Pawnee school district has partnered with Beyond Green Partners to conduct assessment reports on building a foundation for local food systems. The ultimate goal is to transform the school's foodservice into a scratch cooking operation, offering a diverse lunch menu that incorporates fresh, locally sourced ingredients from farmers.

"There is a direct correlation between healthier eating and improved academic performance among students," said Representative Rosenthal. "The kids have shown a great liking for the fresh food options we have introduced. During my visit, I had the opportunity to enjoy a delicious meal consisting of roasted chicken, salad, squash, green beans, homemade applesauce, and a blueberry muffin."

The success of the program in Pawnee will pave the way for its expansion to larger schools with the same mission of promoting local food from local farmers. The Farm to School Pilot Program serves as a model for other districts looking to provide nutritious meals to their students while supporting local agriculture.

The photos from the Pawnee school visit showcase the positive impact of the program, capturing students enjoying their meals made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. These images highlight the importance of initiatives like the Farm to School Pilot Program in creating a healthier and more sustainable food environment for students across the state.

The implementation of the Farm to School Pilot Program in Pawnee CUSD 11 school district is a significant step towards prioritizing students' health and well-being. By cultivating partnerships with local farmers and promoting the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, the program not only enhances the quality of meals but also instills healthy eating habits that can benefit students' academic performance and overall well-being.

With the success of this pilot program, it is evident that the Farm to School initiative has the potential to revolutionize school lunches and contribute to a healthier future for students throughout Illinois.