Frequently Asked Questions about the Edible Schoolyard Academy
Click here to listen to the Edible Schoolyard Academy informational call held on February 27th.
Does my program have to be based in the Bay Area?
We welcome programs from across the U.S. as well as international programs. In previous years, Academy participants have come from all over the United States as well as from Denmark, China, Canada, Puerto Rico, and beyond.
Does my program have to work with middle school students?
While the Edible Schoolyard offers programming exclusively for students at Martin Luther King, Jr. Middle School, we welcome Academy participants who work with people of all ages. In the past, Academy participants have represented programs serving pre-school, elementary, middle, and high school students, a rural food bank program, an American Indian community health initiative, university-based programs, and an array of programs working with people of all ages. We strive to create Academy programming that is relevant to and adaptable for programs working with diverse populations -- in age, background, interest, and geograpy.
Do I have to come as part of a team?
We accept individual participants as well as small teams of 2-6 people. Teams generally consist of educators, administrators, and/or parents. We prioritize accepting team applications over applications from individuals.
What materials will I receive as a participant?
Before the Academy, you will receive a packet containing accommodation and restaurant recommendations, directions, and a detailed agenda. At the Academy welcome reception, you will receive your Academy binder, containing all the take-home materials and resources that will be referenced throughout Academy programming.
What is the daily schedule?
Sunday, June 23rd
2:00 pm - 5:30 pm -- Welcome reception at the Edible Schoolyard
Monday, June 24th
7:45 am - 4:00 pm -- Programming at the Edible Schoolyard; breakfast and lunch included
Tuesday, June 25th
7:45 am - 4:00 pm -- Programming at the Edible Schoolyard; breakfast and lunch included
5:30 pm - 8:00 pm -- Dinner reception
Wednesday, June 26th
7:45 am - 1:00 pm -- Programming at the Edible Schoolyard; breakfast and lunch included
1:00 pm - 4:00 pm -- Field trips to local edible education programs
Thursday, June 27th
7:45 am - 3:00 pm -- Programming at the Edible Schoolyard; breakfast and lunch included
What if I have dietary restrictions or need special accommodations to participate?
Please let us know so that we can do our best to make you comfortable.
Will we learn about school lunch reform?
We will discuss the connections between the garden, kitchen, and school lunch as well as the partnership between Berkeley Unified School District and the Chez Panisse Foundation (now the Edible Schoolyard Project) that revamped district-wide foodservice. Academy content does not include the logistics of managing school foodservice, as the Edible Schoolyard is not involved with serving school lunch.
Is lodging included in the tuition fee?
Participants must arrange and pay for their own lodging. Suggestions will be provided in the welcome packet sent in early May.
What meals are provided?
We will serve breakfast and lunch on June 24th-27th.
What is the payment schedule?
In order to secure your place at the Academy, participants must pay in full ($600) by May 17, 2013. Credit cards, checks, and purchase orders are accepted.
Do you offer scholarships?
For the 2013 Academy, the Edible Schoolyard is able to offer full-tuition scholarships to a small number of individuals wishing to attend the program, due to the generosity of the Acme Bread Company of Berkeley, California. The scholarship funds will be granted to programs operating in California only, based on demonstrated need and potential to benefit from attending the Academy. If you would like to apply for scholarship funds, you will be able to do so as part of the application process.
Do you know of programs that offer funding to attend the Academy?
In previous years, Academy attendees have sought funding for tuition from sources as varied as Federal Title I funds to the Endowment for Unexceptional Humans. Often participants have sought out a local supporter of their program and asked that person to sponsor their attendance at the Academy by paying for all or part of it.
What is the cancellation policy?
If you have paid the tuition and you have to cancel your registration on or before May 17th, you will receive a full refund. If you cancel on or before June 7th, you will receive a 50% refund. If you cancel after June 7th, you will receive a 25% refund. If you are accepted to attend and you have to cancel for any reason, you are welcome to apply again the following year, and we will make every effort to accept your application again.