Christine Tran

A native Californian, Christine graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles with a Bachelor’s degree in English and Asian American Studies in 2004 and a Master of Education in 2006.  She completed her Master's Inquiry on students’ stigmatization of the school meal program and taught high school English, journalism, and Asian Studies for the Los Angeles Unified School District. She was also an active member of the Student California Teachers Association and served on the Executive Board as Communications Editor. In 2004, Christine was named Outstanding Local Leader by the National Education Association.

Field placement: Hunger Task Force

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Christine conducted research on “plate waste” in Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) to evaluate student eating habits during Universal Free Breakfast-in-the-Classroom. She also compiled qualitative data from school communities to assess the value and impact of the Child and Adult Care Food Program supper pilots in MPS.  Findings from both projects were used to make recommendations for improving nutritional programming and outreach within the school community.

Policy placement: U.S. Department of Agriculture

Washington, D.C.

Christine worked with the Child Nutrition Division to promote farm to school efforts. She identified opportunities for effective use of local procurement options, and compiled the best practices and most effective models for Farm to School. She updated the USDA publication Eat Smart—Farm Fresh! A guide to buying and serving locally-grown produce in school meals.

Publications