By Blake Jackson
Farm to Institution New York State (FINYS) has named the new school teams selected for the 2025–2026 New York Farm to School Institute. The schools joining the seventh cohort are:
- Forts Ferry Elementary, North Colonie CSD (Albany County)
- Greater Johnstown School District (Fulton County)
- Jefferson Elementary, New Rochelle CSD (Westchester County)
- Yates Elementary, Schenectady CSD (Schenectady County)
The New York Farm to School Institute is a year-long professional development initiative designed to strengthen farm to school programs throughout the state.
School teams consisting of food service staff, teachers, administrators, youth leaders, and community partners receive guidance and tools to enhance local food procurement, culinary education, and community engagement. The program also focuses on key values such as racial equity, food justice, land stewardship, and climate resilience.
Each participating school team will develop a tailored Farm to School Action Plan, supported by $4,000 in implementation funds. They’ll also receive ongoing coaching, attend a virtual mid-year gathering, and participate in an in-person wrap-up event in May 2026.
The cohort’s journey begins with a two-day Summer Retreat at Mabee Farm Historic Site in Rotterdam Junction, scheduled for August 12-13, 2025.
As part of FINYS’ new Farmer Track pilot, schools will connect with local growers interested in supplying institutional markets during a School-Farmer Meet & Greet.
FINYS, a program of American Farmland Trust, aims to increase the amount of food from New York farms served in public institutions. By fostering collaboration across sectors agriculture, education, public health, and equity-FINYS is working toward a stronger, more just, and sustainable local food system.
Photo Credit: farm-to-school
Categories: New York, Education