As a Network, we’re committed to learning what works—and using that knowledge to grow stronger, healthier connections between farms, schools, and communities.
Why Research Matters
Our research and evaluation efforts help us understand what schools and communities need most and provides evidence for continued state support.
Our Research & Evaluation Action Team works across the Network to:
- Monitor progress in FTS and early childhood programs statewide
- Collaborate with other Action Teams to identify research needs and collect data
- Identify gaps in current programs and recommend evidence-based solutions
- Tell the story of farm to school by combining data and lived experience to show its value for school meal procurement, education, and student wellness.
By putting data and stories together, we’re building a strong case for farm to school and early childhood as a powerful tool for education, wellness, and community resilience in Vermont.
Key Reports
- Vermont Schools & Early Childhood Centers Local Food Purchasing Evaluation 2024, published March 2026
- 2018 Vermont Integrated Food, Farm, and Nutrition Programming Data Harvest
Current Research
- The Shelburne Farms Institute for Sustainable Schools is currently leading a national effort to explore how farm to school programs impact students, including student wellness, social-emotional learning, and deepening community connections with qualitative and quantitative approaches.
Get Connected
Interested in learning more about our evaluation efforts? Get in touch with the leads of our Research & Evaluation Action Team and join a meeting.