Page 102 - Superintendent Annual Report 24-25

OUTSIDE THE LUNCHBOX

Farm Field Trips
The Department of School Food Service (SFS) organized farm field trips for three middle and two high schools,
benefiting 250 students who engaged in experiential learning outside the classroom by visiting a local farm,
which provided a unique, hands-on experience. The field trips were thoughtfully designed to integrate sensory
exploration of agriculture with academic standards, seamlessly merging education and engagement.
Through parternship with Stitt Ranch in Clewiston, students participated in a comprehensive lesson on agri-
culture, covering plant biology to supply chains. They explored a variety of crops, including corn, sugarcane,
green beans, and cabbage, while learning about plant life cycles and nutrition. Students also observed how
produce is prepared for distribution, including to their own school. This visit brought concepts of economics,
supply chains, and environmental sustainability to life. The day fostered a deep appreciation for local agricul-
ture and the journey of food, demonstrating that education thrives beyond the classroom through hands-on
experiences.

Hunger Relief - Bridging the Gap Food Distributions
SFS continued its collaboration with the United Way of Palm Beach County’s Hunger Relief Advisory Council
and other hunger relief community agencies, which provided meals-in-a-backpack and food pantry programs
for students and families (Table 2). These partnerships ensured access to nutritious meals, helping to reduce
food insecurity throughout the District. Through the efforts of the Hunger Relief Collaboration Team (HRCT),
thousands of students benefited from weekend meal programs, improving the well-being of our students and
their families.

Table 2
Partnerships with Local Hunger Relief Organizations

Agency Name with Hunger Relief School Program Number of Schools with Number of Schools with Food
Participation Agreements Backpacks Pantries
Blessings in a Backpack 1 N/A
Boca Helping Hands 14 N/A
Feeding Dreams 10 N/A
Feeding South Florida N/A 5
First United Methodist Church Jupiter-Tequesta 4 N/A
Palm Beach County Food Bank 35 4
TOTAL Programs 64 9

102 SUPERINTENDENT ANNUAL REPORT