Food education is critical in developing healthier students,
families, and communities. By developing healthy eating habits early, students
achieve and maintain a healthy body weight, consume important nutrients, and
reduce the risk of developing health conditions such as high blood pressure and
diabetes. A healthy diet is also associated with improved cognitive function,
reduced absenteeism, improved mood , and improved academic performance.
In OFNS we are committed to expanding food education across all
NYC public schools. The link to the Food Education Roadmap below outlines our
Mayor's and Chancellor's commitment to the following areas:
- Students building knowledge and habits about healthy eating and
wellness
- Students having access to and consuming healthy food in schools
- Our community (families, food service workers, educators) having
the knowledge and resources to be advocates for healthy habits and wellness
FOOD EDUCATION FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES
We support schools with starting and expanding food education
learning opportunities through two distinct, annual funding opportunities that
school leaders may apply for each spring, via Principal's Digest:
- Food Education Grant Program: School leaders may apply
for $6,000 in grant funding to expand food education learning opportunities by
partnering with local service providers.
- Nutrition Collaborative Program: OFNS School
Food Managers are trained to provide samples of new,
plant-powered menu items and discuss the nutritional value of these
items during quarterly meetings with students. The goals of these
meetings are to enhance communication between the kitchen
staff and the broader school community, promote student
involvement, and expand opportunities for students, school staff, and
families to learn about nutrition concepts. By promoting collaboration between
educators and kitchen staff, we also enhance participation
in school meals, while allowing schools to provide feedback. This
program also includes a $10,000 food education grant that can be used to
provide additional food education opportunities across the school
community.
HELPFUL RESOURCES AND CONTACTS
For more information on how your school community can expand food
education learning opportunities, please contact FoodEducation@schools.nyc.gov.