Since 2005, EFP has been working in public schools providing enrichment programs and technical skills training to districts interested in making significant changes to their philosophies and policies around food.

We have focused on public school systems because they present a well structured environment, consistent governance infrastructure, and a growing parent / public interest specifically related to food. We feel this provides a unique opening for community dialogue and learning around important cultural issues. Through our pilot projects in schools we have created a benchmark for information and experiences that meet learning requirements (EALRs) and engage the community.

EFP has designed strategies for school districts to insure that a fully integrated and comprehensive approach is activated based on three core pillars:

• Administrative and Technical Support: includes superintendent and board education, development and implementation of food philosophy and policy, communications strategies, compliance management,  site assessments, food service staff evaluation and training, budget review and consulting, fundraising strategies, vertical integration, management strategies, food sourcing and menu development.
  
  
• Teacher Collaboration and Support: includes a full menu of k-12 classroom enrichment programs including our signature program, Chef in the Classroom, Edible School Gardens, Farm Field Trips, Harvest Celebrations, Service Learning Programs, classroom demos and integrated experiences that meet learning requirements. We also provide a wide range of field specialists and experts for classroom visits.
  
  
• Community Support: engages in a community-wide campaign involving parents, businesses, healthcare and social service agencies, civic organizations and PTAs. Our whole systems approach enhances community commitments to a healthy and sustainable foodshed. Through this work we have established a potent foundation for accessing classrooms and households, building community partnerships, and developing long term strategies for systems change.

STUDENTS

Experience Food Project is committed to providing students with unique learning opportunities at all grade levels. Our school programs are designed to engage and inspire students by providing a new level of comprehension of the value and importance of food culture. All of our school enrichment programs are directly linked to learning requirements established by the state of Washington. It is our belief that a deeper understanding of the historic, cultural and social relevance of a healthy and viable foodshed is an essential component of education in the world today.

TEACHERS

The field of education is undergoing a substantial cultural shift and must continually adapt to an ever-changing landscape. Advances in science and technology, instant access to information and an increasing demand for new skills have challenged many assumptions about education.  An uncertain economy is contributing to severe budget cuts which lead to an increase in class size and diminishing resources.  Through our classroom enrichment programs, Experience Food Project offers the equivalent of a team of classroom specialists and field experts who have the ability to complement and support teachers, and adapt to individual styles.

SUPERINTENDENTS/SCHOOL BOARD

Experience Food Project provides superintendents and school boards with comprehensive strategies for dealing with contemporary food service issues. We have a deep understanding of the current realities districts are facing and bring a strong working knowledge of existing systems. Our team is highly experienced in the development of change strategies and can provide valuable tools for implementing strategic and integrated planning, thereby addressing critical needs on many levels.

PTAs

The Parent Teacher Association (PTA) began when two women from Washington, DC decided that the children of America needed a voice. Alice McLellan Birney and Phoebe Apperson Hearst sent out a call to action and anticipated that maybe 200 mothers would respond. However, on February 17, 1897, more than 2000 mothers, fathers, teachers, workers, and politicians gathered for the very first PTA meeting. After setting by-laws and marking out areas that needed to be addressed, the group began its quest for children’s safety, health, and productive futures. Today more than ever, PTA plays a vital role in the education system. Experience Food Project works with PTAs to recruit and mobilize volunteers, provide classroom support and develop fundraising strategies.