An initiative of the Mollen Foundation
A special, one-year professional learning experience designed to empower schools, districts, early childhood centers, and communities across the state to build strong, sustainable Farm to School programs.
Connecting Cafeterias, Classrooms, and Communities
Where Food Becomes the Heart of Learning
Our Vision
Farm to School is a vibrant journey of collaboration, growth, and scholastic success. Cafeterias and classrooms are transformed into resilient, interconnected systems that nourish communities in mind, body, and spirit. Picture a campus where the cafeteria isn't just a dining space — it's the heart of a thriving educational ecosystem.
Your Journey
Join us during the 2025-2026 school year for the inaugural Farm to School Collaborative Retreat! Schools will attend a three-day immersive experience to create actionable goals for 2025-2026. Teams will receive ongoing coaching and peer support as Farm to School gradually unfolds on their campus throughout the year.
The Details
Eight school, district, or early childhood teams will be accepted to work through an evidence-based approach guided by dedicated coaches to implement their own adaptation of Farm to School practices. These teams should consist of at least one classroom teacher, an administrator, and child nutrition staff.
Program Highlights
The AZ Farm to School Collaborative empowers teams to create impactful farm to school and early childhood programs aligned with their site's values and vision. Through building essential relationships and skills, each team will develop the foundation needed for a sustainable farm to school program.
Build a Team
Foster cross-departmental collaboration among teachers, administrators, and child nutrition staff for shared leadership and growth.
Comprehensive Support
Partner with a dedicated Farm to School Coach for guidance throughout the program, with regular check-ins and personalized assistance.
Create an Action Plan
Develop a comprehensive plan rooted in values, integrating curriculum, local procurement, youth voices, and community connections.
Develop Skills
Engage in hands-on workshops and receive targeted technical assistance to enhance your program implementation and impact.
Connect with Peers
Network with practitioners, teams, and community partners for ongoing support, resources, and inspiration throughout your journey.
What You'll Receive
We will recruit 8 school, district, and early childhood centers from across the state to participate in this comprehensive program.
- Work with an experienced Farm to School Coach throughout the program
- Attend a 3-day retreat in May 2025 to action plan and build relationships
- Receive ongoing technical assistance through monthly meetings during 2025-2026
Plus, receive ongoing support from the Arizona Farm to School Network to ensure your program's success.
2025-2026 Program Timeline
From the initial program launch, through a transformative retreat, and into a full year of coaching and implementation, eight selected teams will work together to bring their farm to school visions to life across Arizona.
Spring 2025
Program Launch: Schools, Districts, and ECEs assemble teams and submit applications
May 2025
Three-day Immersive Retreat
Fall / Winter 2025
Receive ongoing coaching to implement your Farm to School action plan
Spring 2026
Reflect on your action plan and share your experience with the network
Ready to Grow?
Healthy, conscious educational communities connected to each other and our abundant home.