Farm to School: Innovative Learning
Community Story
Since 2011, Wello’s evidence-based Farm to School initiative has impacted the health and well-being of more than 40,000 Brown County students. Classroom Farm to School lessons and school gardens empower children to make healthier food choices and be more active. In addition, Wello’s Farm to School Task Force works directly with school food service departments to support the purchase and preparation of locally-sourced, nutrient-dense, high-quality meals for students' lunch trays. Our school-based partners spur innovation in many forms including the planting of fruit trees at three De Pere elementary schools, maple syrup collection in Pulaski, and the purchase of a tabletop growing system for West De Pere Middle School. Other districts have been able to add equipment like dehydrators, food processors, and vacuum sealers to support greater use of local produce throughout the year.