SUPERINTENDENTS' MEMOS 2007

FEBRUARY 6, 2007

Hi all, Since some are having difficulties opening this attachment, I am going to paste the message below for you. Please copy and send to all elementary school principals and local superintendents.

USDA Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program Application Process for NC Elementary Schools Underway

Since School Year 2004-2005, North Carolina has had the opportunity to participate in the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FF & VP). In this Program, the USDA awards approximately $1 million to the NC Department of Public Instruction to promote fresh fruit and vegetable consumption in schools that applied and were selected to participate. NC can select 25 schools to participate annually.

For the schools selected to participate in the USDA FF & VP, funds are distributed among the schools for purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables. Schools may provide a morning or afternoon snack to all enrolled students and staff. Schools may also provide kiosks in the hallways, a fruit basket in the school office, and other innovative approaches that give students the opportunity to grab a fresh fruit or vegetable snack throughout the school day. The goal of participating in this Program is to expose students to a wide variety of fresh produce which creates a healthier school environment thus an increase in fresh fruit and vegetable consumption amongst students.

Schools participating in the Program will also make nutrition education a priority so students learn the importance of fresh fruits and vegetables in a healthy diet. This Program creates an open environment for students to develop healthful snack habits because it uses their senses such as sight, touch, smell, and most important, taste.

The application process has begun. NC elementary schools interested in participating in the USDA FF & VP for School Year 2007-2008 are invited to complete one application per school which includes a School Profile and Proposal with required signatures. Applications are available through the LEA¹s Child Nutrition Director. Preference will be given to schools with 50% or more students eligible for free or reduced price meals.

For more information about the USDA FF & VP and the application process, contact Zoe McKay-Tucker, Child Nutrition Consultant, NC Department of Public Instruction, Child Nutrition Services Section at 919.807.3517.