Heartland Farm to School Institute connects classrooms, cafeterias and communities

Kristen Sindelar
Mar 10, 2025
Mar 10, 2025

Heartland Farm to School Institute 2.jpeg — Young children help plant the raised garden beds at the Bergan Early Childhood Education Center in Fremont, Neb.
Submitted photo

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With an increased interest in healthy lifestyles, schools and daycare programs are incorporating more local food sources into their menus and finding multiple pathways to accomplish it.

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Heartland Farm to School Institute 3.jpg — The Heartland Farm to School and Early Care and Education Institute is a year-long professional development opportunity that connects classrooms, cafeterias and communities in Farm to School initiatives.
Submitted photo

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Heartland Farm to School Institute 4.jpg — The kick-off retreat included hands-on learning experiences that participants could use immediately with the children in their care, such as how to grow microgreens or make butter in a jar.
Submitted photo

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Reporter Kristen Sindelar has loved agriculture her entire life, coming from a diversified farm with three generations working side-by-side in northeastern Nebraska. Reach her at Kristen.Sindelar@midwestmessenger.com.