The COVID-19 pandemic created major challenges for Oregon State University Extension’s nutrition educators. In Jefferson County, Extension's SNAP-Ed team had long partnered with schools to deliver lessons using storybooks and simple recipes. But when outside partners were no longer allowed in schools, classroom visits came to a sudden stop — and students missed their regular visits from “Miss Dorian.”
By 2022, the Jefferson County team had produced six storybook videos and sparked interest from other SNAP-Ed programs across Oregon.
Rather than pause the work, SNAP-Ed program assistant Dorian Oppenlander turned to a past career in television production to find a new way forward. Drawing on her media experience, she teamed up with Olivia Davis, SNAP-Ed coordinator, and Tracy Wilson, Central Oregon agricultural literacy coordinator, to create a series of nutrition storytime videos for local classrooms.
Wilson, who had been trained to record and edit videos during Extension’s virtual field days, helped adapt their methods to fit a younger audience. Together, the team developed and filmed videos featuring books approved by the statewide SNAP-Ed team, along with recipes and simple nutrition tips. As situations changed, the team adjusted their plan, staying focused on Oppenlander’s strong relationships with local students and schools.
The "Stories with Miss Dorian" videos were shared through the Jefferson County Library District, local schools and SNAP-Ed units across the state. They helped teachers maintain consistent nutrition instruction and offered a familiar, friendly face to students during a disruptive time.
When limited in-person programming returned, the SNAP-Ed team continued adapting. They taught through school libraries, using physical activity lessons, cooking classes and after-school sessions to reach students from kindergarten to eighth grade. In summer 2021, they participated in an extended school program, teaching 32 classes to 450 youths and 64 adults on topics like whole grains, fruits, vegetables and the importance of water.
By 2022, the Jefferson County team had produced six storybook videos and sparked interest from other SNAP-Ed programs across Oregon. Educators statewide began developing their own videos, expanding the reach of quality nutrition education beyond classrooms and into homes.
Teachers report that while they miss seeing "the Nutrition Lady" in person, students still enjoy the stories and get excited about the recipes Miss Dorian shares.
Jefferson County SNAP-Ed continues to meet the evolving needs of schools with creative, relationship-driven programming — combining innovation, storytelling and strong community ties to keep students connected to healthy habits.
