District honored with 2026 Farm to School Partnership Award; staff credited for expanding local procurement

Sadie Crockett Box, the district’s service director, told the board May 20 that Saranac Lake Central School District received the 2026 Farm to School Partnership Award from the New York State School Nutrition Association and the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets.

The award recognizes the district’s collaboration with local farms, creative approaches to integrating local foods and increased access to fresh fruits and vegetables. "We have utilized over a dozen local, regional and state farms and food hubs to procure over 30% of our food from New York State farms," Sadie Crockett Box said, and she credited cafeteria staff for implementing full salad bars at the junior and high school and expanding fresh produce offerings.

The board applauded staff and acknowledged the award as part of the district’s broader efforts to strengthen ties with regional producers and provide more nutritious options to students. District staff said they will continue to prioritize seasonal procurement and build on relationships with local food hubs.