For over ten years, the Tucson Unified School District (TUSD) in Arizona has been committed to serving fresh, local produce in its cafeterias. With the recent support from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) through the Local Food for Schools program, the district was able to increase its local food budget to 10% of its overall nutrition spending. According to Lindsay Aguilar, the food services director, TUSD received nearly $67,000 from the USDA, although it requested over $100,000 in reimbursements.
However, a significant change is on the horizon. In March, the USDA announced the cancellation of the $660 million Local Food for Schools program, which raises concerns about its impact on local districts like TUSD. Aguilar noted that the district has already committed to purchasing local produce for the 2025-26 school year. Because farmers need to plan their crops well in advance, TUSD had final arrangements in place as early as November.
Without the federal funding, TUSD faces tough decisions. Aguilar mentioned that they may have to cut from other areas of their budget to maintain purchasing local food. "It’s essential for our program, but not all districts have the same ability,” she said, emphasizing the unfortunate reality that this change could impact students’ education about local food systems.
The USDA’s decision to cut the program comes amid rising food prices and stricter regulations for school nutrition programs. AASA, The School Superintendents Association, stated in a March release that schools need more support, not less, to navigate these challenges.
Interestingly, the conversation around food security is becoming more critical than ever. A recent survey revealed that one in six U.S. households faced food insecurity in 2022. With many families struggling to afford nutritious meals, the cancellation of programs designed to support local agriculture could have far-reaching effects.
In response to the USDA’s decision, a group of Democratic senators urged Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins to reconsider the cancellation. They highlighted the importance of programs like this, which have provided funding across all 50 states, and noted that supporting local foods is key to tackling food insecurity.
Amid these developments, a USDA spokesperson indicated that the end of the program marks a shift back to “long-term, fiscally responsible initiatives.” They argue that while short-term solutions were necessary during the pandemic, the focus is now on sustainable changes that can endure beyond the crisis.
TUSD and other districts now find themselves at a crossroads, grappling with how to sustain their local food initiatives without federal support. As schools adjust, the impact on students’ health and education about nutrition continues to be a critical concern. Schools play a significant role in teaching children about healthy eating, and with fewer resources, that mission may become increasingly challenging.
For more insights on food programs and education, check out AASA’s statement and other current USDA resources.
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