Farm to School Program

Farm to School

EHPS Farm to School Vision Statement

The East Hartford Farm to School Program values strong relationships that connect students, families, educators, local farmers, and community partners. We are committed to supporting local agriculture and providing all students with access to nourishing, culturally inclusive school meals, hands-on learning in outdoor spaces, and an understanding of where food comes from. By building bridges between schools and local agriculture, we foster a resilient, connected, and thriving community.

What is Farm to School?

Farm to School is a program that connects students to fresh, locally grown foods through hands-on experiences in the cafeteria, classroom, and community. In the cafeteria, students enjoy school meals that incorporate local produce and engage in taste testing activities of new foods. In the classroom – both indoors and in outdoor learning spaces (i.e. school gardens), students engage in lessons about agriculture, nutrition, and the food system. In the community, partnerships with local farmers and organizations provide opportunities for farm visits and events that bring community members together. By integrating these three areas, Farm to School helps students build healthy habits, supports local agriculture, and strengthens the connection between schools and their communities.





2025-2026 School Year Goals

  • Secure dedicated funds for a permanent Farm to School Coordinator.
  • Reach 3 new schools indoor garden spaces.
  • Reach 1 new middle school with an outdoor school garden.
  • Increase the number of grades that participate in farm field trips by 100%
  • Increase the number of parents engaged in school gardens by 25%.
  • Increase farm to school professional development offerings to twice a year.
  • Increase the number of teachers who use school gardens by 25%.

Local Farm Partnerships

  • Handel Family Farm, East Hartford, CT
  • Holcomb Farm, Granby, CT
  • Cloverleigh Farm, Columbia, CT
  • Oxen Hill Farm, Suffield, CT
  • Hasting Farm, Suffield, CT
  • Blooms of Lost Acres, Granby, CT
  • River Ridge Farm, Middletown, CT

Contacts:

Shari Staeb
Foodservice Director
[email protected]
860-568-4252

Carolyn Pancarowicz MS, RD
Registered Dietitian
[email protected]

Emma Fetridge
Farm to School Coordinator
[email protected]

Aliza Ebora
Farm to School Coordinator
[email protected]


Follow Us On Social Media:

East Hartford Farm to School Facebook

East Hartford Farm to School Instagram


East Hartford Hunger Action Team Facebook