​Announcing the 2025–2026 Maine Farm & Sea to School Institute Cohort​

Written By Renee Page

The Maine Farm & Sea to School Network (MFSN) is delighted to introduce the newest cohort participating in the 2025–2026 Maine Farm & Sea to School Institute. This year-long professional development program empowers Maine schools and districts to cultivate robust Farm & Sea to School (FSTS) programs that enhance student learning, promote local food procurement, and strengthen connections to Maine’s farming and fishing communities.​

2025–2026 Cohort Schools:

  • Portland School District – Longfellow Elementary, Lincoln Middle, and Deering High, Portland, ME

  • Montello Elementary School, Lewiston, ME

  • Great Salt Bay Community School, Damariscotta, ME​

These dedicated teams will convene this July at The Ecology School in Saco, ME, for a three-day immersive Academy Program. During this retreat, they will collaborate to develop comprehensive FSTS action plans tailored to their unique community needs. With the support of experienced coaches, teams will focus on integrating FSTS principles across the Classroom, Cafeteria, and Community—the three core areas of Farm to School.

Throughout the 2025–2026 school year, participants will receive ongoing mentorship, practical resources, and personalized coaching to implement their action plans effectively. By the end of the Institute, teams will graduate equipped with the tools, resources, and shared leadership necessary to sustain and grow their FSTS programs. They will also join a growing statewide network of alumni committed to building healthy and sustainable school food systems across Maine!

We celebrate the leadership of these schools and look forward to the impactful work ahead!​

Reflecting on the 2022–2023 Inaugural Cohort​

The Maine Farm & Sea to School Institute launched its inaugural cohort in 2022–2023, marking a significant milestone in Maine's commitment to integrating local food systems into education. Modeled after the Northeast Farm to School Institute in Vermont, the program was established through a partnership between MFSN, the University of Maine School of Food and Agriculture, and over 20 collaborating organizations and agencies.​

The success of the inaugural cohort laid a strong foundation for the Institute's ongoing efforts to connect Maine schools with local food systems, fostering a culture of equity, wellness, and sustainability.

Join the Movement​

The Maine Farm & Sea to School Institute continues to support schools in increasing healthy food access, creating a culture of equity and wellness, and strengthening local food systems. By participating in the Institute, schools become part of a collaborative network dedicated to transforming Maine's food landscape.​

For more information about the Institute and how to get involved, visit the Maine Farm & Sea to School Institute

Renee Page
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