A coalition of the largest U.S. school districts is this week celebrating Fresh Attitude Week, which highlights healthy choices and the inclusion of produce in school meals.
The celebration is held in partnership between the coalition—called the Urban School Food Alliance—and the French Department of Agriculture. It involves serving new produce during school meals, hosting farmers to teach students about where their food comes from and spotlighting student-created vegetable recipes, according to a release.
New York and Chicago school districts will also host French representatives to exchange ideas on how to encourage students to make healthy food choices.
“We're proud to showcase our campuses and the innovative and healthy meals we serve our students,” Alliance Chairman Eric Goldstein said in a statement. “The French are renowned for their food culture, and this exchange is integral to our commitment to serve quality, healthy food in schools for both countries.”
Together, the six districts in the Alliance purchase nearly $70 million worth of fruits and vegetables a year, 55 percent of which is locally sourced, according to a release.