MPS Kids Really Can Eat Well!

From its colorful salads, trendy sandwiches and new menu of fresh entrees, Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS) are making big strides with Farm to School. Rosemary Dederichs, MPS Director of Nutrition, knows the challenges inherent in sourcing 25,000 servings of farm-fresh produce, but her collaboration with produce supplier Cre8it, Inc. and a new venture with organic grower Featherstone Farms are proving that the district's volume challenges can be met.

MPS staff work with Twin Cities-based Cre8it to purchase local produce like tomatoes, onions and peppers for Garde Mange (translation: fresh cuisine) salads and sandwiches. Plus, Cre8it will supply locally grown, pre-cut cabbage, potatoes, squash, cranberries and other fresh foods on days when fresh fruits and vegetables are menued.

Beginning in September 2010, MPS will also partner with Featherstone Farms to incorporate Featherstone's organically grown produce into the district's meal offerings. This effort grew out of a partnership developed by a school's Parent Teacher Association (PTA) and Featherstone's Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program. Lastly, MPS is developing a comprehensive communications plan to help inform students and parents about its fresh new menu and locally grown foods.

For more detailed information, contact:

Rosemary Dederichs
Phone: 612-668-2820
Rosemary.Dederichs@mpls.k12.mn.us