Braintree Elementary was the perfect setting for my first VT FTS regional gathering. The school was bright and inviting, set on a small hill several rolling miles across sprawling farmlands from the more thickly settled town of Randolf. The school itself was impressive and full of life despite being after hours.  We were greeted and welcomed by staff and students, both very proud to share their space and what Farm to School means to them at Braintree Elementary. I was especially impressed by the two students who took the time to present in front of a room full of adults on why they love their school and how much they enjoy their time in the garden. Braintree blossoms was the name given for their farm to school club; a collection of all ages, learning through mentorship, where students work their gardens to learn, harvest and even sell a little produce to the local community. 

Special thanks to Misse Axelrod and Dana Hudson for facilitating the gathering and curating an fun, intimate and productive workshop for us all to enjoy. This setting was particularly helpful for understanding the specific challenges and inner workings of various programs within the central region and provided a space for great minds to problem solve and celebrate all the hard work that’s being done. It also gave me a great opportunity to share what we are doing at Food Connects around Harvest of the Month, as well as some clarity as to how we can best support educators going forward. After all was said and done, we parted ways feeling inspired to continue elevating Farm to School education across the state.

- Devan Monette, Harvest of the Month Program Manager