Farm to School: From Local Foods, to School Gardens
Farm to School is a national program aimed at enriching local communities by connecting schools with local food producers, and enhancing education practices in the classroom. Iowa Farm to School is coordinated by the Iowa Department of Education and the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.
In School Year 2020-2021, Urbandale began implementing Farm to School practices by increasing local procurement, engaging students with school gardens, and participating in Iowa Local Food Day.
"Farm to School Empowers children and their families to make informed food choices while strengthening the local economy and contributing to vibrant communities."
School Gardens
School Gardens
School Gardens are an amazing tool for education. Not only do they increase engagement with curriculum by including hands on learning, they have also been proven to increase children's consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables. Who doesn't want to try a bite of something they've had a hand in growing? 🌱
For the past four years we have worked with students and teachers to grow a variety of vegetables in our gardens at Webster Elementary and Rolling Green Elementary. We grow all of our crops free from pesticides and herbicides and instead promote the value of companion planting for managing these concerns.
With the help of volunteers during the summer months, our gardens thrive and we are able to harvest fresh produce to be served both in our Summer Program, and once school starts again in the fall. Click through the pictures to see some of what was harvested, and stay tuned for future garden updates!
If you are interested in volunteering in the gardens over the summer, please contact Cassie at mayrosec@urbandaleschools.com.
Local Food
Local Foods
In addition to the produce grown in our gardens, we are also proud to provide local fruits, vegetables, dairy, and protein on our menus. By partnering with local farmers we are able to support Iowa's economy, focus on sustainability, and improve the quality of the meals we serve. Items containing local products are indicated on the serving line with an "eat local" sticker.
Iowa Local Food Day
Iowa Local Food Day started in 2018 as a way to bring all the elements of Farm to School together. In order to participate, schools need to menu at least two local items for breakfast or lunch. The last two years we've had a blast creating delicious meals using local foods for our students to enjoy.
