The Kentucky Department of Agriculture announced on April 22 the launch of its second annual Farm to School Stars Recognition Program, which rewards school districts for purchasing food directly from Kentucky farmers.
The program aims to strengthen local agriculture by encouraging schools to buy more locally grown produce and proteins, supporting both students’ nutrition and farm incomes. Commissioner of Agriculture Jonathan Shell said, “Kentucky farmers grow some of the best food in the nation, and our schools play a vital role in getting that food onto the plates of our students. When schools buy local, our students, our farmers, and our communities all benefit.”
Under this initiative, the top three school districts demonstrating a strong commitment to buying from local producers will receive monetary awards: $10,000 for first place, $8,000 for second place, and $6,000 for third place. These funds must be used by winning districts to purchase local foods during the following school year. The program supports Senate Bill 5 (SB5), which gives participating school districts more flexibility when purchasing Kentucky-grown agricultural products while still meeting federal requirements.
Districts are eligible if they participate in the United States Department of Agriculture National School Lunch Program. Only breakfast and lunch meals will be evaluated for award consideration. Districts that win an award are not eligible to compete again in the next year. Applications must be submitted by July 31; rules and application materials can be found at kyagr.com/consumer/documents/FD_FS_KDA_Star_Recognition_Application.pdf.
According to the official website, the Kentucky Department of Agriculture obtains funding through grants for county fairs and agricultural projects. The department also celebrates agricultural education during designated months according to its official website. Administrative operations are based in Frankfort according to its official website, while resources and programs are provided across all counties in Kentucky according to its official website. As a state agency within Kentucky’s executive branch according to its official website, it aims to enhance the state’s agricultural economy through strategic partnerships and planning according to its official website.
Winners will be announced during Farm to School Month in October.
