Starting at 6 pm, the evening includes an art show of pieces by Newfane Elementary School students; dinner of homemade soups, breads, and desserts; a raffle showcasing several amazing items to raise funds for the school’s outdoor bread oven; and two exciting guest speakers, Richard Berkfield of Food Connects and Keenan Healy, a third grade teacher from Sharon Elementary, who will share his school’s incredibly successful Farm to School Model.
Many local farmers will be in attendance, as well, to share information and answer questions from the community.
During the past two years, NewBrook’s Farm to School Program has gained significant momentum. In June 2013, NewBrook was one of only 10 schools in the state to attend a three-day residential professional development opportunity called the Farm to School Institute. What resulted was a well-realized plan for NewBrook’s new breakfast and lunch program, including the incorporation of local foods into meal planning and preparation; growing partnerships with local farmers and businesses; monthly school-wide taste tests; expanding the school garden; and integration of farm/garden/nutrition curriculum into the school day. The school is also working to raise funds to build an outdoor bread oven, which will not only serve to help raise funds for the school, but, more important, bring the community together through community events and gatherings.
NewBrook is very excited to share their progress and future plans for this exciting initiative with the larger community. Anyone interested in hearing about the NewBrook Farm to School Program, or to learn about other farm to school models in the state is welcome to join us on November 19. All are welcome.
For more information contact NewBrook Elementary School at (802) 365-7536.