The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is proud to announce the winners of the 2025 Minnesota Grown Awards for Farm to School programs. This new contest recognizes K-12 school districts that go above and beyond to promote and serve foods grown and raised by Minnesota farmers and producers.
Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan Public Schools were recognized among leading districts who are Outstanding in the Field, which has three levels: Golden Drumstick Honors, Silver Squash Honors, and Bronze Berry Honors. Award criteria include how district prioritize local purchasing practices, promote and educate students about local foods, and engage with the broader community through events and activities.
- 2025 Golden Drumstick Honors Awarded to
- District 196 – Rosemount-Eagan-Apple Valley
- Mesabi East School District (Aurora)
- Northwestern Minnesota Juvenile Center (Bemidji)
- Roseville Area Schools
- Love and Laughter Family Child Care (Anoka)
“Minnesota continues to lead the way in farm to school, creating stronger connections between local farms, classrooms, and communities.” says MDA Commissioner, Thom Petersen. “We’re proud to recognize the schools and early care providers that are making local food a vital part of how we nourish students and invest in resilient local economies that support small family farms.”
Winners of the Minnesota Outstanding in the Field honorees will receive exclusive rights to use the Minnesota Grown Outstanding in the Field branding for the award year and a signed certificate.
Minnesota Grown is a program of the MDA to promote products grown and raised in Minnesota. The program has connected consumers with local farmers, farmers’ markets, and other producers of agricultural products for over 40 years. Development of the Minnesota awards was supported by a Patrick Leahy Farm to School Grant from the USDA.