Applications for School Teams for the 2025-2026 Institute year are now closed.
Eligibility
This opportunity is open to Maine K-12 schools, districts, and Early Childhood Education (ECE) Centers.
Teams of up to six individuals are encouraged to apply, ensuring a diverse mix of stakeholders including administration, teachers, school nutrition/food service, and others such as families, farmers, community partners, and school staff.
Read more about building a team on our FAQ Page
Program Fee
There is a $900 non-refundable program fee to participate in this year-long professional development opportunity.
If this program fee is a barrier to your team’s participation, reach out directly to MFSN via email at a.peterson@hccame.org to request a scholarship.
Coaching
The Maine Farm & Sea to School Network (MFSN) is looking for experienced, collaborative leaders to serve as coaches for the Institute. Coaches will support school teams throughout the year as they grow Farm & Sea to School programs in their communities.
Ideal candidates are skilled facilitators with strong communication abilities and a deep commitment to building vibrant, local food systems in Maine schools.
School Team Selection Guidelines
Five school teams will be selected for the Institute year based on the following criteria:
Readiness – Does your school community have the capacity and enthusiasm to support this initiative?
Community Participation – Does your team include strong leadership from school nutrition, administration, teaching staff, and/or other key personnel?
Need – Is your school already running a successful Farm & Sea to School program, or is there potential for growth and expansion?
Demographics – Does your school serve a student population that would benefit from this program? Are students engaged and interested in participating?
