Areas of Focus – Washington Farm to Schools Network

The Washington State Farm to School Network brings together people and organizations across education, food systems, public health, agriculture, nutrition services, and community leadership to strengthen farm to school efforts across Washington.

Our areas of focus reflect the shared priorities of the Network and support a future where all students have access to nourishing local food, hands-on learning, and meaningful connections to food, land, and community. Through collaboration, advocacy, storytelling, and relationship-building, we work to build healthier, more equitable, and resilient food systems statewide.

Rooted in LearningCultivate food systems education through hands-on experiences like school gardens, farm visits, and farm-to-ECE programs. We empower students to understand where their food comes from, celebrate local agriculture, and embrace sustainability.

Harvesting ConnectionsBuild strong relationships across the food system to increase the availability of fresh, diverse, and locally sources foods on kids’ plates. Support partnerships among and within communities to strengthen local economies and ensure nutritious meals for all students.

Sowing Seeds of ChangeAdvocate for accessibility, increased funding, and policy shifts that strengthen local food systems and connections between communities and their food. Center the diverse voices of the Network to address accessibility, ensuring all communities benefit from farm-to-school programs and have access to locally grown, nutritious food.

Sharing Stories Share powerful narratives and research-based insights that highlight the transformative impact of farm-to-school initiatives. Inspire communities to engage with the Network’s purpose by amplifying success stories and celebrating shared achievements.

Stories from the Network

Washington State Farm to School Network Hosts 2019 Regional Gatherings

People working on farm to school activities around the state met to build local momentum and partnerships through the network! The “Regional Farm to School …

Our Impact

Measure Farm to School Impact Across WA

Source: 2022-23 USDA Farm to School Census