For Immediate Release:
February 4, 2022
TEXAS AGRICULTURE COMMISSIONER SID MILLER CONGRATULATES SEMINOLE ISD FOOD SERVICE DEPARTMENT FOR ACHIEVEMENTS IN THE FARM FRESH CHALLENGE
SEMINOLE, TX — Today, Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller announced the nutrition team at Seminole ISD has successfully completed the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) 2021 Fall Farm Fresh Challenge. Throughout October, the children at Seminole ISD ate local foods, learned about Texas agriculture, and the staff shared their success on social media. The challenge is part of Commissioner Miller’s Farm Fresh Initiative that is building a Farm Fresh generation by connecting farmers and ranchers with school nutrition programs.
“The Farm Fresh Challenge plays a critical role in connecting Texas farmers and ranchers directly with school children and local communities,” Commissioner Miller said. “Texas agriculture has a real impact on students and their daily lives. I want to challenge our kids to make healthy lifestyle choices for every meal they eat by filling their plates with locally sourced produce from right here in the Lone Star State.”
Seminole ISD demonstrated their commitment to ensuring Texas children are homegrown and healthy by taking the Farm Fresh Challenge. They joined 186 other school districts and charter organizations for the annual event. In addition to serving healthy and balanced meals every day, these schools make offering agricultural education and serving Texas foods top priorities during the challenge. Their efforts help strengthen local economies while recognizing the efforts of farmers and ranchers in the Lone Star State.
“Living in a rural community, we recognize the importance of supporting our local farmers and ranchers”, stated Cindy Therwhanger, Director of Food Services for Seminole ISD. Throughout the year, Seminole ISD students are served Texas based products daily. “Supporting and utilizing Texas based products ensures students receive a quality meal while providing economic stability to our community. Working together, we provide a stronger program for all.”
The Seminole ISD Food Service Department was one of 89 Texas schools that completed their pledge to serve more Texas products to children and teach them about local agriculture. Through this challenge, more than 10.2 million dollars were spent on local foods. We applaud their efforts in providing nutritious meals and quality service to the students of Seminole ISD.
This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
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Media Contact:
Emily Birdwell
432.758.3662