Barre Unified Union Celebrated for Fresh Approach to School Meals with Genuine Foods

Barre, Vermont | Schools: 4 schools, grades K–12 (2,300 students)

Engaging Students Through Fresh, Local Dining

Barre Unified Union works with Genuine Foods to create a dining program rooted in scratch cooking, local sourcing, and student engagement, making meals an extension of the classroom and a point of pride for the community.

Hands-on programs:

  • ‍Try It Tuesdays invites students to taste new foods and give feedback on menu items.
  • Hydroponic gardens supply fresh greens for meals. A surplus of basil led to a partnership with local restaurant, which featured the school-grown basil on its menu.

These efforts are part of Genuine Foods’ broader K–12 approach to transforming school dining through culturally relevant meals, real student voice, and transparent reporting.

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These efforts are part of Genuine Foods’ broader K–12 approach to transforming school dining through culturally relevant meals, real student voice, and transparent reporting.

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Results that stand out:

  • 83% lunch participation, the highest in district history
  • State award for sustainable food practices

Setting a New Standard

Participation is at record highs, students are engaged, and sustainability is part of everyday practice, showing how the partnership with Genuine Foods sets a new standard for school dining.

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https://genuinefoods.b-cdn.net/case-study-pdfs/Barre%20Unified%20Union%20School.pdf

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