Contact:
Alesa Hefner
hefneralesa@gmail.com

Northwest Tennessee Local Food Network Hosts Cook Camp to Inspire Fresh, Local School Meals

Martin, TN – The Northwest Tennessee Local Food Network (NWTN LFN) recently welcomed chef ambassadors from Wellness in the Schools for Cook Camp, a hands-on culinary training designed to equip school nutrition professionals with practical techniques for preparing fresh, locally sourced meals that students will enjoy.

Nutrition staff from Crockett County, Clarksburg, Lake County, Trenton, Milan, and Bradford school districts participated in the training, gaining new skills and recipe ideas focused on scratch cooking, seasonal ingredients, and creating healthy, flavorful meals for students.

Throughout the camp, chefs demonstrated how simple cooking techniques and quality ingredients can transform school meals while supporting local agriculture.

“The trick to Italian cooking is using simple ingredients treated with respect.” — Chef Jason

Cook Camp also highlighted the importance of partnerships between schools and local farmers. NWTN LFN recognizes and thanks Bell Family Farms, Blackberry Pond Farm, Healthy Flavors Tennessee, and Stockyard Market for their continued commitment to providing fresh, locally grown products that help nourish students and strengthen communities.

By bringing together chefs, nutrition professionals, and local producers, NWTN LFN continues its mission of connecting schools with healthy, locally sourced foods while empowering cafeteria teams with the tools and confidence to serve delicious, nutritious meals.

Focus on food. Focus on fresh. Focus on fueling the future.