By Jessica Greensides, ASU sustainable food systems graduate student
Curt Ellis, Co-founder and CEO of FoodCorps, once said, “Thinking with real intention around the role schools can play in shaping children’s knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs around food is a powerful step to take.” With those words in mind, Model USDA Scenario B: Expanding Nutrition Education to Schools Nationwide began. Over three days, students from diverse schools and backgrounds came together to forge a pathway for implementing the Food and Nutrition Education in Schools Act of 2021 (S1421).
Each student assumed the role of a stakeholder or USDA personnel, working to navigate challenges and align on a strategy for moving the bill forward. With representatives from National Farm to School, Alliance for a Healthier Generation, FoodCorps, the National Dairy Association, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, and more, the process underscored the complexities of balancing industry priorities with public health goals. The first day revealed how difficult it was to advocate for organizational interests when they conflicted with personal beliefs. But by day two, participants found their footing, diving deep into budget discussions and community-focused initiatives.
As always, no government implementation process is complete without unexpected roadblocks. A breaking news story midway through the simulation added a layer of urgency, forcing stakeholders to respond to heightened public scrutiny over food safety. In real time, participants had to reevaluate their positions, work collaboratively, and craft solutions aligned with public health and industry interests.
The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, National Dairy Association, and National Farm to School Program came under fire following a foodborne illness outbreak at three schools suspected to be caused by contaminated meat. This heightened concern about food safety makes it a top priority in program design. Stakeholders had to actively prevent future outbreaks, ensuring rigorous food safety protocols for producers, transportation services, and school gardens. Organizations like FoodCorps and the National Farm to School Alliance played a crucial role in securing commitments to food safety education, advocating for full-time facilitators dedicated to this mission.
Throughout the simulation, students experienced firsthand the complexities of policy implementation. While great ideas were presented, aligning them with realistic budget constraints and regulatory hurdles was another challenge. The debate over funding for disadvantaged communities revealed how difficult it is to balance priorities when resources are limited.
Despite this setback, the experience underscored an essential truth: crises often require cooperation and innovation. Under pressure, the task force aligned on the need for stricter safety measures and enhanced educational outreach to build community trust. By day three, students had fully embraced their roles,highlighting critical implementation challenges. Unfortunately, the task force had limited time to finalize a comprehensive plan. But the key takeaway wasn’t just the final solution—it was the experience of navigating the complex world of policy-making.
“The first year of grants will be awarded to 15 school districts, with the flexibility to distribute funds across programs and schools. The emphasis will be on districts where at least 40% of students qualify for free or reduced lunch, areas with high childhood obesity rates, and initiatives prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
The program's primary focus includes hands-on learning experiences like school gardens, field trips to local farms and producers, and education on food safety and preparation. With applications opening in the winter, schools will have ample time to plan and implement pilot programs by the following summer. More districts will be eligible to apply in the second phase, expanding the initiative’s reach nationwide."
Watching participants set aside personal beliefs to advocate for stakeholder interests, engage in respectful debate, and find common ground was genuinely inspiring. The process illuminated the hidden intricacies of USDA decision-making, proving that policy implementation is far more than just allocating funds. It requires strategic oversight, accountability, and multi-stakeholder cooperation to ensure that resources reach the right programs and are effectively utilized.
One of the most valuable lessons learned was the role of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in bridging gaps within public education. FoodCorps and the Alliance for a Healthier Generation showcased how external organizations can complement school-based education, offering specialized programs to enhance food literacy. Their presence in the simulation reinforced the importance of leveraging public-private partnerships in advancing food education.
At the conclusion of the simulation, the School Nutrition group reached a consensus on an implementation strategy. However, the greatest success wasn’t just the policy outcome—it was witnessing a group of young minds come together to tackle a pressing national issue. Their ability to step into unfamiliar roles, articulate opposing viewpoints, and engage in constructive dialogue showcased the kind of leadership that will soon be entering the workforce to help create a sustainable food system.
This blog is part of a series written by ASU graduate students who role-played as journalists in the Swette Center's inaugural Model USDA, held virtually from January 31 to February 2, 2025.