Story by Joseph Claverie, California FSA
Photos by Candy Moore, Idaho FSA
This month the Farm Service Agency showcased its versatile talent as Idaho FSA State Director Dick Rush entertained students at Owyhee Harbor Elementary school by climbing into a blue panther suit.
“This isn’t my usual attire for work, but the cause justifies the means,” explained Rush. Disguised as the Power Panther and with a large grin, the executive leader informed children that eating a healthy breakfast is important. The Power Panther’s motto is “Eat Smart, Play Hard.”
Mrs. Power Panther, also known as Nancy Rush is a registered dietician and program manager for Boise’s Central District Health Department. She attended the event, along with other local dieticians, to promote healthy eating, right from the start.
Owyhee Harbor Elementary School in Boise is one of a growing number of “Farm to School Pilot Schools” around the country. This youth nutrition program connects K-12 schools with local farms and promotes healthy meals in school cafeterias. The program helps improve student nutrition and educate students about agriculture, health and nutritional issues. The Know Your Farmer Know Your Food initiative and support of regional farmers also are key themes for this student program.
The program began in 1996 as a pilot in Florida and California. In 2000 the USDA provided support to bring the program to a national level. In 2007, a grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation furthered its expansion. The Urban & Environmental Policy Institute (UEPI) based at Occidental College in Los Angeles along with the Community Food Security Coalition now work collaboratively on The Farm to School Network.
“Kids nutrition and knowing more about what we eat and where it comes from are important issues,” explained Rush. “Farm Service Agency supports this kind of effort and so do I.” Today the Farm to School Network reaches 47 states with more than 2,250 programs that serve almost 10,000 schools. Find more information about The Farm to School Network by visiting www.farmtoschool.org.
