More than 30 million children eat a school lunch five days a week, 180 days a year. If school lunch can taste great, and support the local community, it is a win-win for everyone.

Farm to school efforts connect schools with nearby farms for the benefit of children and a sustainable food system. Farm to school programs can include: buying and featuring farm fresh foods in classrooms and cafeterias, adopting nutrition and agriculture-based curriculum, and providing experiential learning opportunities through farm visits, gardening and recycling programs.

Across West Virginia, people are figuring out how to connect farmers to schools in innovative ways.

For example, for nearly a year now, Jefferson County schools have served locally-grown apples, peaches, blueberries and potatoes in the cafeterias and soon two schools will also serve locally-raised ground hamburger. “The cooks really, really like the produce,” Ralph Dinghes, assistant superintendent for food service, said.

"I see farm to school efforts as crucial for building markets in West Virginia," said Pam Curry, CEO's executive director. People question whether or not we can do it here, but farm to school programs are thriving in all parts of the country. It's a great opportunity."