In late spring 2023, the Granville PTO noticed a recurring issue: teachers frequently bought snacks for students. “Our efforts to help weren’t enough,” noted Board Member Meghan Steves. “We needed a more sustainable solution.”
With the help of a staff member, the PTO conducted a confidential survey of teachers at Mary J. Tanner (MJT) and Granville Elementary (GES) discovered that approximately 160 out of over 400 primary and elementary students consistently went without a snack. Recognizing that snacks significantly improve behavior and focus, the PTO decided to ask for help.
Granville CSD Food Director Ms. Conklin stepped in with a plan. Drawing on her experience from Vermont, she applied for the NYS Education Department's Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program. As a result, this summer, Ms. Conklin was thrilled to have secured over $30,000 for fresh snacks at MJT and GES .
Starting this school year, about three times per week students will enjoy fresh fruit and vegetables during designated snack times, with teachers participating to model healthy eating. Ms. Conklin hopes to introduce students to new, exciting foods they might not try at home.
Ms. Conklin also instituted a “Share Basket” policy in all three school cafeterias where students can safely share school lunch items that they do not want to eat like whole fruit or wrapped sandwiches. Students can help themselves at no cost to the Share Basket and bring it to class for an afternoon snack.
Additionally, Ms. Conklin will seek further training this winter to enhance local resources for our food program.
A big thank you to Ms. Conklin, retired Business Manager Cathy Somich, and the PTO for their dedication and innovation in supporting our students!
And thank you to Granville PTO Board Member Jackie Williams for connecting our district to the John O'Brien Agency of Glens Falls, who have generously donated $400 in snack funds for MJT and GES through their O'Brien's Angel's Food for Thought Program. Here is the link to the community involvement information.
MORE RESOURCES
20 Cheap and Healthy School Snack Ideas from a Dietician
FREE Cheap and Good Cookbook: How to Eat Well on $4 Day SNAP Benefits
Enroll in NYS SNAP benefits for help with groceries, snacks, and more.
Click here to learn more about the NYS Education Department Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP)
For the latest on all school events, please click here to view the district calendar on our website, or download the Granville CSD app to your mobile device. Here is the link to learn how to download and use the district app.