Executive Chef Tyler Anderson of The Copper Beech Inn recently accepted an invitation from First Lady Michele Obama to travel to Washington and take part in the Chefs Move to Schools initiative, an opportunity for chefs around the country to adopt local schools to help solve the childhood obesity epidemic. Chef Anderson was one of 400 chefs to be invited nationwide.

“Chefs Move to Schools will pair chefs with schools in their communities to bring fun to fruits and vegetables, and teach kids about food, nutrition, and cooking in an engaging way, ” according to Michele Obama.logo_letsmove

With more than 31 million children participating in the National School Lunch Program and more than 11 million participating in the National School Breakfast Program, good nutrition at school is more important than ever.

Next up for Chef Anderson is to adopt a local school and begin changing its cafeteria plan.

“Childhood obesity has reached a critical level throughout our society and our local children here in Connecticut feel the same pressures, demands, and nutritional food confusion that all kid’s face,” said Chef Anderson. “We feel privileged and honored to be chosen by Mrs. Obama to participate in this program and can’t wait to get started.”

Chefs Move to Schools is part of a larger initiative called “Let’s Move,” a program that gives parents the support they need, and makes healthy, affordable food available in every part of the country. For additional information on these initiatives click here.

– guest contributor