Farm to School Leadership Academy
Begins September 2025 with a virtual orientation. First in-person gathering at Shelburne Farms October 2025. Virtual meetings through the winter. In-person gathering in Minnesota April 2026.
The Farm to School Leadership Academy brings together leaders and aspiring leaders who are committed to transforming food systems in schools. By focusing on education, resilience, and care, explore how transformational leadership, systems change, and community support can help strengthen and sustain your farm to school work.
Who should apply? The program is best suited for educators, coordinators, and school nutrition leaders working in farm to school and food education in K-12 settings. Priority will be given to those working in public school systems.
Commitment
The Farm to School Leadership Academy is a hybrid offering, with multiple group sessions throughout the year:
- September 2025: Virtual welcome & orientation session on Tuesday, September 30, 3:00PM ET
- October 2025: First 2.5-day, in-person retreat October 28-30 at Shelburne Farms in Shelburne, VT (travel October 27 and October 30)
- November 2025–March 2026: Four virtual group sessions in the second week of November, January, February and March. Specific dates and times TBD with cohort.
- April 2026: Second 2.5-day, in-person retreat the week April 27, 2026 in the Minneapolis, MN area (specific dates and location coming soon)
- May 2026: Final virtual gathering. Specific date and time TBD with cohort.
Throughout the year, participants will work on self-selected projects, gaining insight and wisdom from their peers, mentors, guest presenters, and the Land.
Fee: Free, program expenses are supported by the USDA. Any travel and incidental expenses are the responsibility of participants. Limited travel stipends available.
Applications due Monday, June 30.