In partnership with the NJSBA, Princeton University invites K-12 teachers to participate in a free, six-day professional development program that will help them create lesson plans for students based on the connections between food, farming and New Jersey’s learning standards.

During the six day-long programs, called “From Farm to Fork,” Princeton Professor Dan Rubenstein will introduce the components of the food system, beginning with agricultural production, distribution and marketing, to consumption and waste, that will help teachers design and carry out investigations in their own backyards, school garden, or local farm.

Food will be the relevant problem through which teachers will learn how to ask and answer scientific questions and then use what they’ve learned to reshape the science lessons they teach.

Rubenstein, Dr. Anne Catena, Dr. Jessica Monaghan, Gina Talt, NJSBA STEAM and Sustainable Schools Specialist John Henry, and local lead teachers Helen Corveleyn and Cory Picketts will guide teachers through the learning process and data collection that will culminate with the presentation of a  lesson plan, giving teachers a chance to apply this learning experience to enhance their own practice.

Teachers interested in outdoor or place-based learning experiences are invited to sign up for the virtual program which will be presented from June 27 through July 2 via Zoom.

Space is limited, and registration is required by May 15, 2021. For more information and to register, visit https://teacherprep.princeton.edu/quest2021, or email Dr. Monaghan.