The latest episode of the Copper Shores Podcast is all about the new Farm to School program, and includes special guests Karyn Juntunen and Meghan Jaszczak!

For over a decade, there has been a growing interest in Farm to School initiatives in the Copper Country. However, implementing these programs has presented numerous challenges. Now, with the support of the Michigan Health Endowment Fund, Copper Shores is stepping up to match funding and ensure the long-term success of Farm to School programming in the region.

The pilot program will focus on three local schools: Houghton Elementary School, E.B. Holman Elementary School, and South Range Elementary School. Karyn Juntunen, a retired educator and dedicated farm-to-school coordinator, will lead the effort. She will work closely with teachers to foster enthusiasm and create a seamless integration of the Farm to School curriculum into everyday lessons.

Juntunen’s role extends beyond just curriculum development; she will engage directly with students, teaching them about various foods, how to grow them and how to prepare them. This hands-on approach aims to instill a deeper understanding of where food comes from. Through this initiative, local school champions are fostering healthier eating habits among students while strengthening their connection to local agriculture, setting the foundation for a lifelong appreciation of food.

Listen to more from Copper Shores wherever you find your podcasts. Learn more about the Farm to School Pilot Program at ⁠coppershores.org/farm-to-school⁠.