Treutlen Awarded Georgia Farm to School Award

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The Georgia Department of Education has commended Treutlen County Schools for their utilization of locally grown goods in school lunches, as the state has awarded the school the Georgia Farm to School Award.

The Georgia Farm to School Award recognizes school districts that do an outstanding job educating students about agriculture, and that incorporate agriculture into their school nutrition. The award – which is given out annually by Georgia Department of Education School Nutrition Division, in cooperation with the Georgia Department of Agriculture, the University of Georgia Extension Program, and the Georgia Department of Public continued from page

Health – is presented to schools with locally grown items in school meals, farm to school promotions and marketing done throughout the school environment, schools who have edible gardens, and schools that have farm to school language adopted into policy or procedure.

The Treutlen County School System not only utilizes fresh locally grown fruits and vegetables, but also teaches the students about these goods and where they come from. The district thrives on connecting students with the agriculture industry, and teaching them about healthy options that they can find in the surrounding areas.

Treutlen County Schools Nutrition Director Alecia “Red” Barrett commented on the award, saying, “Farm to school is the most rewarding part of my job. I love the connections I have made with local farmers. Our students recognize and ask for many of these local items. We are honored to be recognized for our farm to school efforts.”

Treutlen County Schools Superintendent Susan Stone added, “We are so thankful to be able to bring fresh, locally grown foods into our schools and tot each students where their meals come from. We’re not just nourishing their bodies we’re nurturing curiosity, supporting Georgia agriculture, and building the foundation for lifelong healthy habits.”

Barrett received the award from Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper, State School Superintendent Richard Woods, and Georgia Department of Education Assistant Director Holly Thaw during a recent ceremony.