The Massachusetts Farm to School program has spotlighted the outstanding efforts of the Boston Public Schools (BPS) Office of Food and Nutrition Services, recognizing them as “Kale Blazers” for their leadership in farm-to-school initiatives. This prestigious accolade is awarded annually to individuals who are champions in the Massachusetts farm to school movement, demonstrating exceptional dedication to bringing fresh, local foods and enriching food education to students across the Commonwealth.
Since its inception in 2016, the Kale Blazer awards have honored those who are at the forefront of connecting schools with local farms. This year, Boston Public Schools proudly announces that two of its own from the Office of Food and Nutrition Services, Anneliese Tanner and Heidi Rivera, have been named among the distinguished honorees. They share this recognition with Kerrita Mayfield of Amherst Regional Public Schools and former Massachusetts State Representative Paul Schmid, all making significant strides in this vital area.
Anneliese Tanner, the Director of Food and Nutrition Services for Boston Public Schools, has been pivotal in amplifying the school district’s commitment to sourcing local food since she assumed her position in 2023. Overseeing food services for 45,000 students across 125 schools, Tanner has made remarkable progress in increasing the procurement of local and values-based foods. Her leadership is evident in the implementation of the Good Food Purchasing Program, a collaborative initiative spearheaded by the City of Boston’s Office of Food Justice. This program leverages the substantial purchasing power of municipal institutions to advance social, environmental, and economic objectives through food choices. Tanner is diligently working towards Boston Public Schools’ ambitious goal of sourcing 30% local food. Furthermore, her initiatives are focused on providing culturally relevant and appealing meals, fostering a welcoming and inclusive dining experience for every student. Aliza Wasserman, Director of the City of Boston Office of Food Justice, praised Tanner’s vision and impact, stating, “Anneliese’s leadership at BPS Food & Nutrition Services has been instrumental in ensuring our students enjoy nutritious, culturally resonant meals while supporting regional farmers, valuing food workers, and protecting our environment. Her expertise and dedication have already had a profound positive impact on BPS students in a short time.”
Heidi Rivera, Cafeteria Manager at Henderson Inclusion Upper School, Boston Public Schools, embodies how individual passion within school kitchens can significantly propel the farm-to-school movement. Rivera is celebrated for cultivating a warm and inclusive cafeteria atmosphere where students are encouraged to discover and enjoy healthy, locally sourced food options. A colleague noted, “She is an invaluable asset to our inclusive school community, consistently making sure that every student feels welcomed and supported in the cafeteria.” This constructive and positive school cafeteria environment plays a crucial role in encouraging students to try new, healthy, and local foods, which in turn supports their well-being and success throughout the school day.
These award recipients are making a substantial difference across school food and nutrition, education, and policy landscapes. They represent the epitome of Massachusetts’ dedication to building a more inclusive and sustainable food system for all.
Simca Horwitz, Co-Director of Mass. Farm to School, emphasized the importance of these awards, stating, “Through the Kale Blazer award, we are honored to recognize the local heroes who are strengthening the food system in Massachusetts. From educating the next generation of climate leaders, to championing public investment in farm to school programs, and transforming school food sourcing and preparation, the 2025 Farm to School Kale Blazers serve as an inspiration to us all.”
About Massachusetts Farm to School
Established in 2004, Massachusetts Farm to School is committed to strengthening local farms and fisheries while promoting healthier communities by increasing local food procurement and education within schools. The organization offers training, technical support, and advocacy to bolster farm-to-school initiatives throughout the state, nurturing enduring partnerships between local educational institutions and food producers.
For further details, please visit www.massfarmtoschool.org.
