We are an expanding network of educators, mentors, community activists, local foods entrepreneurs, students, parents,and interested others who are committed to supporting the expansion and realization of opportunities for youth in the broadly defined local food system.  We are committed to including people from the rural, urban, and suburban areas, and from the full range of socioeconomic, personal and ethnic backgrounds.  We believe firmly in the promise of education and the accompanying obligation to successfully educate all students.  We also believe the best educational practices put students squarely in the middle of our mental maps, curricular and program designs, and planning and evaluation processes.  We support open communication and collaboration and believe that, when done well, the inclusion of many perspectives actually strengthens our objectivity and impact.  

This mission statement, provided by Ross MacDonald, is to be considered an initial draft for the consideration of group members and hopefully to be sharpened and strengthened. 

This group is moderated, meaning we will screen those who wish to join so as to protect the site from illegitimate or spamming purposes.