Get Started

When thinking about starting a farm to school program, it is important to keep in mind that every school, school district, and college is different. Physical infrastructure and kitchen equipment may vary from one to school to another, as will the interests, skills, and motivations of the people who work there.

Every school context is unique as well: The agricultural capacity of the area (e.g. the kinds and amounts of foods grown and raised nearby) needs to be considered. As does the availability, access, and affordability of food distribution networks, and storage facilities.

Keeping these potential unique characteristics in mind, there are several keys to successfully planning, implementing and sustaining farm to school connections. Communication and relationship building are critical. Here are some suggestions for getting started in farm to school. More detail can be found in the farm to school Toolkit.