The world of school nutrition is constantly evolving, with new challenges and opportunities arising every year. Bringing together the dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to feed our students is crucial for sharing knowledge, celebrating successes, and planning for a healthier future. The School Nutrition Association of South Carolina (SNA of SC) State Conference provides the perfect venue for this collaboration, and this year’s event was no exception.
From October 9th to 11th, 2025, Ashley Fain and Stephanie Pike of Taylor Boys’ Produce had the pleasure of attending the SNA of South Carolina Conference for the first time. The event was a whirlwind of activity, filled with insightful classes, engaging events, and valuable networking opportunities. We were thrilled to connect with so many passionate individuals at our booth during the Friday Expo.
One of the standout moments for us was a special class co-taught by our own Ashley Fain and Ben Sease, the state’s Farm to School Program Coordinator. Their session, “Farm-to-School: Hosting a Successful Event,” provided a practical roadmap for schools looking to build stronger connections between their students and local agriculture.
Bringing the Farm to School
The Farm to School movement is gaining incredible momentum, and for good reason. It’s an initiative designed to connect schools with local farms. This would bring fresh, healthy, and locally sourced foods into school cafeterias.
To give attendees a tangible taste of what’s possible, Ben brought along examples of products he can provide for school demonstrations. He showcased vibrant hydroponic herbs and a fascinating array of fresh and dried mushrooms, illustrating the diversity of local foods available to schools.
A Blueprint for Successful Events
Building on Ben’s foundation, Ashley Fain then shifted the focus to practical application. How can schools take the great ideas behind Farm to School and turn them into engaging, memorable events? Drawing from her experience, Ashley provided a detailed checklist to guide schools through the planning process. As well some engagement examples for every grade level, ensuring no detail is overlooked.
Looking Forward
Our time at the School Nutrition Association of South Carolina State Conference was incredibly rewarding. It reaffirmed our commitment to supporting the hardworking professionals who nourish South Carolina’s students every single day. The passion and dedication we witnessed were truly inspiring.
We believe that building strong Farm to School programs is one of the most powerful ways to foster healthier communities. If you were unable to attend the session or have more questions, we encourage you to reach out. Taylor Boys’ Produce is dedicated to being a resource for schools. We are always here to help you get started.
Let’s continue to work together to plant the seeds for a brighter, healthier future for all our students.
