Posted 27 May, 2026
The Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Food Systems Team, in partnership with Next Step Adventure, is launching a new initiative to help high school educators inspire the next generation of food system leaders. The Youth Local Food Leader Educator Cohort will provide hands-on training, curriculum resources and a statewide support network for teachers.
Over the next two years, the program will train two cohorts of high school educators, reaching up to 25 participants nationwide, including 10 to 15 Iowa-based educators in the 2026 pilot cohort. Pilot participants will receive practical tools and a ready-to-use, standards-aligned curriculum to bring food systems topics into their classrooms.
Chelsea Lynn, farm to school and early care program specialist, shared how the new initiative can expand food systems education with new collaborators.
“This project is an exciting opportunity to connect with high school educators and embed food system education in existing curriculum and programs. I’m grateful our team and partners can learn alongside motivated educators and the next generation of local food leaders — high school students,” said Lynn. “This initiative represents a major step forward in preparing Iowa students to engage with local food systems, agriculture and community-driven solutions.”
Iowa-based educator cohort application open
The program will use a blended learning model that combines in-person cohort gatherings with virtual monthly learning circles, allowing educators to engage flexibly while building a collaborative community of practice.
Applications are open until August 1, 2026, and include a submission package, two recommendation forms and one letter of administrative approval.
The first cohort is open to Iowa high school educators; 10–15 will be selected. Interested educators can review application materials at the Youth Local Food Leader website. Selected educators will participate in programming from November 2026 to June 2027 and will be compensated for their time, materials and travel expenses.
Additionally, an informational Q&A webinar about the project and cohort will be held on Wednesday, May 27, at 5 p.m.; those interested can register online.