“The program was everything
I had hoped for.”
-SnackTime Explorers Educator
Our lessons align with education standards
Days are short. That’s why we maximize your FFVP time by aligning lessons with widely recognized educational benchmarks:
Common Core State Standards (CCSS)
Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)
WIDA Language Development Standards
This multifaceted alignment allows educators to incorporate food education into various subjects, including math, reading, science, and social studies.
Teachers can expect…
Real-Time Display of Program’s Impact
You’ll consistently complete pre- and post-program surveys to measure your students’ attitudes toward trying new foods and your confidence implementing Food Education during FFVP class time.
Hands-On Professional Development
To facilitate effective implementation, Pilot Light offers professional development sessions that are aligned with both state standards and their Food Education Standards. These trainings equip teachers with the necessary tools and knowledge to seamlessly integrate SnackTime Explorers into their existing curricula, ensuring that Food Education complements and enhances traditional academic instruction.
Access to SnackTime Explorers Toolkit
Includes grade-specific plug-and-play lessons, Produce Passports, Produce Posters, and links to additional resources, including supplemental reading and videos!
Peer Support and Mentorship
Through collaboration with current SnackTime Explorers teachers, our robust alumni network, and 1:1 mentorship with Pilot Light, you’ll receive any guidance you need for program implementation.
Educator Cohort and Stipend
You’ll actively participate in the 15-week cohort alongside other SnackTime Explorer teachers, receiving 1:1 support, earning continuing education credits (varies by state), and a stipend.
How It Works
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Teachers qualify if they participate in FFVP at their school, have a strong application, and receive DNO/FRESHEALTH produce at their school. After you apply, you’ll receive an email outlining the status of your application and the next steps in how to proceed. Then, you’ll schedule a screening call with Pilot Light. Once accepted, you’ll receive an official welcome email with orientation details.
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SnackTime Explorers is a 15-week program featuring 7 repeatable lessons. Each 15-minute mini lesson is to be implemented at least once a week during your designated FFVP tastings. Additional time requirements include three 60-minute professional development sessions with our program leaders, weekly check-in questions via email, quick pre- and post-program surveys, and a 15-minute mid program check-in call with our program leader.
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Once our produce is delivered to your school through our trusted distributor network, your school nutrition team — including kitchen managers and food service staff — will handle distribution to classrooms. If needed, we’re happy to assist with coordination to ensure everything runs smoothly.
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SnackTime Explorers has been specifically designed to accompany FFVP produce items. We strongly encourage you to implement the lessons with snacks to cover the tasting portions of the lessons. We are happy to work with you and find alternative ways for your classroom to access food samples.
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The Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program has been designed to bring fruit and vegetable snacks exclusively into classrooms as a way to encourage increased familiarity with different types of produce and overall produce consumption. SnackTime Explorers has been crafted to enhance your classroom instructional time by adding a fun, hands-on educational element to your classroom’s snack time! We encourage you to familiarize yourself with the USDA’s Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program Guidelines for more information.
Stay Engaged
with Fellow Alumni
SnackTime Explorers thrives by empowering school leaders to champion food education far beyond a single year.
Our SnackTime Explorers Alumni Network (STEAN) keeps SnackTime Explorers teachers engaged, even after their semester ends. After you join, you’ll get access to new resources and continued support from Pilot Light.