School District Sample Policy for Promoting School Gardens

Motion / Resolution Presented to the _____________________ School District for Consideration

SUBJECT:

DATE PRESENTED FOR ACTION:

PRESENTED BY:

MOTION:

RESOLUTION:

Whereas, School gardens can provide children access to fresh, healthy food, physical activity programs, which are not otherwise available to them;

Whereas, Such gardens also provide opportunities for family and community involvement in schools, academic achievement, environmental stewardship, science education, work preparedness and appreciation for the natural world;

Whereas, School Gardens can provide connections to farmers’ markets and other healthy sources of food that promote community solutions and eating local sources of food;

Whereas, The ___________________ School District Wellness Policy includes goals for nutrition education, physical activity, and other school-based activities that are designed to promote student wellness in a manner that local schools and the community determines is appropriate;

Whereas, The California Superintendent of Instruction in 1997 announced a state goal of establishing “a garden in every school”; and

Whereas, Governor Schwarzenegger signed legislation which provides $15 million for school gardens through the 2008-2009 school years; now, therefore, and

Whereas, Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont has included an amendment in the Farm Bill to authorize $10,000,000 to establish a pilot program for gardens in low income schools that teach the participating students about agriculture, sound farming practices, and diet, be it

Resolved, that the Governing Board of the _________________ School District directs the Superintendent to:

1. Mandate the preservation of existing gardens in District schools;

2. Promote the use of school garden produce in school cafeterias through salad bars and other means;

3. Develop and evaluate school garden pilots in the District to facilitate a more systematic roll out of “a garden in every school” program;

4. Establish pilot programs which link school gardens and community health and food system change, such as those demonstrated by East Palo Alto nonprofit Collective Roots, to evaluate logistical issues, shared resources, cost factors, community engagement with the schools, etc.;

5. Work with the Cities of _____________ and _________________, _________________ County, the State of California, and local foundations to establish and ensure ongoing financial support for school gardens;

6. Working with community partners, establish resources in the District to provide educational curricula and professional development for garden instructors, students and their gardens.