Arlethia Brown, Camden School District
This fall’s Top Tomato, Arlethia Brown Sr. Director of School Nutrition for Camden City School District, is leading a dynamic nutrition program for Camden students and their community.
Investing fully in programs like Farm to School, FFVP, Child and Adult Care Food Program, Summer Food Service Program, and partnering with efforts such as Campbell Full Futures, FoodCorps, and the Common Market, Arlethia and her team are building an enriching culture of health and community wellbeing.
Ms. Brown has created a school environment that allows for student input and feedback on the school menus. Are you curious as to what students are requesting for their school lunch, Ms. Brown and her team have found the recipe for success. Serving locally grown and culturally inclusive food in the child nutrition programs has cultivated a nutritional platform that truly fits her students.
Embracing a whole school and whole community approach, Arlethia's nutrition team brings Farm to School principles to life! This was highlighted during Camden City School District's Earth Day Celebration - their first annual, "Local Foods and Sustainability Festival." The event gathered some of the school district partners such as FoodCorps, Campbell Full Futures, and Common Market. The school featured local produce, growers, activities in gardening, and seed starting, and allowed guests to enjoy music as well as food - provided by Whitson's Culinary Group.
When asked about their program mission, it is clear that Arlethia and her team are building something special in Camden.
What is their aim?
"To encourage and contribute to the development of our students and community. It is our mission to provide nutritious, appetizing, and quality meals in a healthy and courteous manner. Promoting healthy options and providing breakfast after the bell, school breakfast, school/after school snack, dinner, and other nutrition programs assist in the overall wellness of our students." "To provide learning environments where all students are valued, accepted, and prepared to positively impact their lives, the environment, and the world."
Arlethia's commitment to this vision, including school programs and collaborations, continues to be transformational for her students and the greater community. We are excited to celebrate Arlethia Brown as our Fall 2023 NJ Farm to School Top Tomato!
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