Montgomery County Schools partner with Agriculture Department for Farm to School initiative

Montgomery County Public Schools is taking significant steps to promote healthy eating habits among students through a new partnership with Sweet Grown Alabama. This initiative, highlighted during the recent MPS Board Meeting, aims to enhance the Farm to School program, ensuring that local agricultural products are featured in school cafeterias.

During the meeting, officials announced that over 18,000 pounds of food sourced from Alabama farmers will be served in Montgomery County schools. This effort not only supports local agriculture, which is the state’s leading industry, but also educates students about the origins of their food. The initiative aligns with National School Lunch Week, which began in the 1960s to raise awareness about child nutrition programs across the nation.

The collaboration with the Department of Agriculture is a pilot program intended to increase Farm to School activities in the district. By showcasing Alabama-grown products, the schools aim to instill healthy eating habits in students while fostering a sense of community and connection to local farmers.

In addition to the focus on nutrition, the meeting also touched on the importance of school attendance, as September is recognized as National Attendance Awareness Month. Alabama law mandates that children aged 6 to 17 must attend school, emphasizing the critical role of education in the community.

These initiatives reflect Montgomery County Public Schools' commitment to promoting health and wellness among students, while also supporting local agriculture and fostering community ties. As the district moves forward with these programs, the hope is to create a healthier, more informed generation of students.