California Food for California Kids® Network
The Center for Ecoliteracy is seeking school nutrition directors interested in joining the California Food for California Kids Network. This acclaimed network supports school districts in building capacity to provide all students with fresh, locally-grown school meals and create connections between the cafeteria, classroom, and garden. Membership is free of charge.
MEMBER BENEFITS
As part of this network, you will:
- Learn from peers and experts
- Attend skill-building and networking sessions
- Gain resources to serve fresh, locally-grown food
- Host special events and projects for your district
- Transform school food policy
NETWORK IMPACT
Members can directly impact student health and learning:
- School Meals for All: Advocated for School Meals for All in the 2021 California state budget, resulting in California becoming the first state to offer free breakfast and lunch at school
- Staff Training and Kitchen Upgrades: Advocated for more local, freshly-prepared school meals in the 2021 California state budget, resulting in $150 million for staff training and kitchen upgrades and $30 million for Farm to School
- National Media Coverage: Featured in national media coverage, including The New York Times, CNN, and Good Morning America
COMMITMENT
We ask that members make a commitment to:
- Increase local procurement
- Increase freshly-prepared meals
- Provide garden, culinary, and food system education
- Contribute to data and storytelling
We’re with you all the way. We conduct a baseline assessment with new members and an annual assessment at the end of each school year with goal-setting support and opportunities throughout the year to help you advance your school meal program.
