Local Farm to School Champions in North Iowa

Inspiring Leaders in the Local Food Movement

Julie Udelhofen’s dedication to student nutrition and local food sourcing has earned the Clear Lake Community School District national recognition. Earlier this year, the district received one of the first four Healthy Meals Incentives Recognition Awards in the country for improving the nutritional quality of student meals. Julie’s passion for nutrient-dense, locally-grown foods and child nutrition education has made her a standout leader. Clear Lake has been recognized for reducing sodium in menu items through sourcing low-or-no-sodium products, increasing the use of fresh local foods, and enhancing flavors with custom spice blends.

A key highlight of the district’s program is the monthly taste tests, which go beyond just sampling food. The nutrition staff build trust with students, forming connections that encourage them to try new foods and learn about nutrition. This engagement helps shape lifelong healthy eating habits, and students feel heard and valued in the process. “I am blessed with a supportive staff, superintendent, school board, and our local community partners! Preparing food with love really does change the flavor,” Julie says, crediting her team for the district’s success.

Nancy Eastman has spearheaded Riceville Community School District’s holistic Farm to School program, which focuses on hands-on learning and connecting students to fresh, local food. Through taste tests, farmer visits, and fun activities like The Great Apple Crunch and an elementary school farmers market, Nancy fosters a deep connection between students and the food they eat. “Hosting events like the elementary school farmers market not only provides students with access to fresh, local produce but also fosters a sense of community and connection to the food they eat,” she says.

Riceville’s commitment to local food earned them the Golden Root Award from the Iowa Farm to School and Early Care Coalition in June, recognizing their outstanding efforts in growing a vibrant local food program.

John Adams Middle School is building a strong connection between students and local food, even though the district doesn’t currently participate in local food procurement. Faculty and community partners have worked together to educate students about the importance of eating locally, not just for personal health but also for the well-being of the community, the economy, and the environment. Students have enjoyed hands-on experiences, including making tacos and fresh salsa using local ingredients, competing in a Grilled Cheese Challenge, and creating smoothies with local yogurt and honey using a human-powered blender bike.

In fall 2023, JAMS Connections students installed a school garden, and students in the Beyond the Bell after-school program have been learning about the food system while cooking with a crockpot. These programs help students understand the broader impact of their food choices, creating a new generation of local food advocates.

Marie Morud is a true local food champion, serving as Healthy Harvest of North Iowa’s Farm to School Coordinator. With a deep dedication to the health and wellness of all students, Marie works tirelessly to ensure that kids in our region have access to fresh, nutritious local foods. Her work spans across multiple school districts where she coordinates taste tests in lunchrooms and classrooms, giving students the opportunity to try and learn about local ingredients.

Marie’s role goes beyond organizing events—she builds lasting relationships with area food service directors, offering them the guidance and support needed to incorporate local foods into their menus. Whether she’s working with school administrators or handing out samples to curious students, Marie’s passion for connecting kids to wholesome, local foods is evident in everything she does. Her unwavering dedication to our region’s youth makes her an invaluable part of the Healthy Harvest team and a true advocate for the local food movement.