We're thrilled to hear that Jake Gallogly, Food Service Manager at West River Education District (WRED), has won the 2024 Innovation & Advocacy Award from the School Nutrition Association of Vermont and Hunger Free Vermont! Jake's outstanding work embodies the essence of our Farm to School program and its mission to change the food landscape in our schools.

Jake's Mission: Healthy Food, Engaged Students

Jake took over WRED's school nutrition program with two clear goals—improve food quality and increase student access. In just two years, his dedication has transformed the program into a model for innovation, student engagement, and, most importantly, healthy, delicious meals.

From Scratch Cooking to Local Farms

With initiatives like securing the Chef Ann Foundation's Get Cooking grant, Jake has made scratch cooking a cornerstone of the school's meals. He even invites chefs from WRED elementary schools to use Leland & Gray's facilities, spreading the benefits of homemade food within the district. Local, fresh ingredients take center stage, fueled by sourcing from Food Connects and direct partnerships with neighboring farms—most notably, organic milk from Miller Farm.

Summer Meals and School Gardens

Jake understands how food security extends beyond the school day. His successful summer meals program provided crucial nutrition for students, highlighting the importance of year-round access to healthy food. His role on the school's Farm to School team and advocacy for district-wide programming demonstrate his commitment to food education. He was instrumental in the creation of a school garden last year, and plans for a greenhouse promise even more fresh produce and student involvement. It's a testament to Jake's dedication that students learn not only where their food comes from, but can have a hand in growing it.

Advocacy Beyond the Kitchen

Jake isn't stopping within the school walls. He's actively testified before the Vermont Legislature about the importance of Farm to School programs, becoming a vital voice for food policy. He shares his expertise and enthusiasm with colleagues across the state, inspiring others to take similar steps to transform their own school meal programs.

Why We Celebrate Jake

We deeply admire Jake's passion and innovation. The benefits of nutritious, locally sourced foods are immeasurable for our children. Jake's work isn't just about better lunches; it's about healthier, more informed students, a stronger regional food system, and a genuine community connection to the food on their plates.

Join us in Congratulating Jake!

Please join us in offering huge congratulations to Jake Gallogly on this well-deserved recognition! His hard work reminds us that positive change is possible, one meal, one garden, and one passionate individual at a time.

Learn More and Take Action:

• Want to learn more about Farm to School? Visit our website 

• Get inspired by other school food innovators at the School Nutrition Association of Vermont 

• Support Hunger Free Vermont in their efforts to combat food insecurity

Let's all support the changemakers like Jake who are creating a better future for Vermont's students!