Register for the Central UP Farm-to-School Institute
Join our FREE 2 day professional development opportunity to help gain experience with local food through project-based learning!
2024 Farm to School Institute attendees attend the farm and garden tour to learn more about farm to school programming. Photo by PCF Marketing Coordinator, Camden Kinnie.
2026 Central UP Farm-to-School Institute official flyer.
Learn how to engage students in school gardens.
Explore project-based learning.
Learn more about safe food integration into your school cafeteria.
Participants will learn to link academic subjects with food systems change while building a network of regional food partners.
Every attendee will walk away with a variety of resources including curriculum and practical strategies to enhance local food access and education.
What You’ll Learn
This is a FREE 2 day professional development opportunity in person in Ishpeming, MI at Partridge Creek Farm. This opportunity is open to:
Teachers
Food Service Directors
Community Partners
Each year the Institute’s agenda covers different topics to offer returning participants the opportunity to learn about a variety of subjects.
Who Can Attend
Register For This Event
While this is a FREE 2 day development opportunity we still require attendees to register so that we can best prepare.
May 19th 2025
May 20th 2025
The Farm to School Institute will take place at the Mather Inn in downtown Ishpeming, MI. As well as learning opportunities in PCF Farm and Garden sites.
Register for the free 2026 Central U.P. Farm-to-School Institute below!
Learn More About Partridge Creek Farm
Partridge Creek Community Farm
550 Cleveland Ave Ishpeming MI
Partridge Creek Community Programming
Explore our programming!
Partridge Creek Community Gardens
Explore our Gardens!
FAQs
Please expand and read each section below to learn more about the Central UP Farm-to-School Institute.
-
Registration will close when the event reaches capacity or May 15th, whichever happens first.
However, please reach out to mary@partridgecreekfarm.org if you would like to get on the waitlist.
-
Registration starts at 9:30-9:45 am and the sessions will conclude at 4 pm.
-
The training is planned to take place at The Mather Inn (107 Canda Street, Ishpeming, MI 49849). We will visit other locations, including the Partridge Creek Community Farm and gardens, and will share details with attendees at the training.
-
Stipends are available for teachers and school staff attending both days of the Institute. If your school is in session June 11-12 due to snow days, reimbursement for a substitute teacher for both days of the session is available. Please share your needs on the registration form and Mary Antonia Andronis (mary@partridgecreekfarm.org) will get back to you..
-
A travel stipend to offset the cost of travel and lodging is available to those who request it. The amount available will depend on how many participants utilize this resource. The anticipated amount is $120. Please save lodging receipts if you utilize the travel stipend. Stipend funds will be distributed after the training. You can share your needs on the registration form.
-
You are responsible for booking your own lodging. Lodging options are available in Ishpeming, Marquette, and surrounding areas -- here’s a list from Travel Marquette.
-
Snacks as well as lunch that features local food will be provided, as well as water and beverages. Please indicate in the registration form if you have specific dietary requirements or food allergies.
-
This event is a mix of workshops, panels, and hands-on activities both indoors and outdoors. Please dress for the weather! Participants will have their choice of sessions about school gardens, engaging with community partners and local food, and linking academic subjects and food systems. Participants are welcome to attend the sessions that interest them based on the description and age group. We are planning tours of farms and gardens, as well. Watch your email for a draft agenda, coming in May!
-
Please contact Partridge Creek Farm’s Director of Programs and Partnerships, Mary Antonia Andronis with any Farm-to-School Institute questions.
Office: (906) 376-4171
