(L-R): Nadine Elting-Dargan of S.F.B. Morse Elementary School, Education Director Jamie Levato and Executive Director Ray Armater of Poughkeepsie Farm Project.
In a celebration of the National Farm to School Network’s Farm to School initiative, and its mission to incorporate local food and nutrition into school meals, Poughkeepsie Farm Project honored Nadine Elting-Dargan, principal of S.F.B. Morse Elementary School. Elting-Dargan was recognized for her dedicated partnership with the organization including on the opening of a school garden, the Farm Fresh Home Chefs program, the Mobile Fresh Market at school dismissal, farm field trips, cooking workshops, school garden workshops, professional development opportunities for teachers and cafeteria tastings with raw produce. All programs have benefitted her students and increased awareness about locally- grown food and nutrition. Poughkeepsie Farm Project embarked on its Farm to School work in 2013 as part of a collaborative project funded by the USDA. Its partnership with Poughkeepsie City School District has successfully introduced more fresh local produce into school meals.
