LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders announced Wednesday the launch of the Arkansas Plate Initiative, a statewide program to connect local food producers with schools to provide meals using Arkansas-grown ingredients.
The initiative aims to supply schools with fresh produce, meats, and dairy from state farms, with a focus on improving student nutrition and supporting Arkansas agriculture. It builds on a pilot program announced in June 2025 for the Marion School District, set to begin in the 2025-26 school year.
“Arkansas schools benefit from nutritious meals and close relationships with local farmers,” said Arkansas Secretary of Education Jacob Oliva. Agriculture Secretary Wes Ward added that the program will expand market opportunities for producers while ensuring high-quality food for students.
The Arkansas Department of Agriculture and Department of Education will oversee implementation, with details on participation and funding to be released in coming months. Schools interested in joining can contact the departments for more information.
