The Texas Agriculture Commissioner, Sid Miller, announced today that the nutrition team at Montgomery ISD has successfully completed the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) 2021 Spring Farm Fresh Challenge.

MISD joined schools and childcare providers across Texas in “Eat Local, Teach Local and Be Social” from April 12 through May 14. The children at Montgomery ISD ate local foods, learned about Texas Agriculture, and the nutrition staff shared their success on social media. The challenge is part of Commissioner Miller’s Farm Fresh Initiative created to connect farmers and ranchers with operators of nutrition programs administered by the TDA. 

“We are honored to have received this award again for the special Spring Farm Fresh Challenge,” Child Nutrition Director Lena Neugebauer said. “We will always strive to serve high quality, Texas-grown products to the students of Montgomery ISD.”

The Spring Farm Fresh Challenge reflects TDA and its partners’ commitment to introducing Texans to local foods and supporting Texas farmers and ranchers. TDA delayed the start of the challenge to allow agricultural producers a chance to assess product availability after Texas’ winter storms. Schools and childcare centers were encouraged to use these current events in their lessons about the hard work and dedication required to bring food to the table. Prioritizing agricultural education and Texas foods during the challenge was a great way for partners to strengthen local economies and recognize the efforts of Texas farmers and ranchers.   

“The Farm Fresh Challenge plays a critical role in connecting Texas farmers and ranchers directly with school children, child care providers 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.”