Farm to School program teaches kids how to eat

The Massachusetts based Farm to School program encourages the use of locally grown foods in school cafeterias. Rather than the limp french fries and greasy pizza that was served back in my school days, these kids have fresh, tasty, and nutritious options. In addition to the nutritional perks, the program also boosts the local economy. To date, over 70 Massachusetts school districts are receiving goods from more than 40 local farms. With better options on their cafeteria food line, kids are learning the importance of healthy eating. What's more, they're learning the benefits of buying food locally.

I live in a rural community and it's always sad to see parcels of farmer's fields being sold off for residential or commercial use. I know I would like to see a program like this implemented in my son's school. Anything that encourages good eating habits gets an A in my book -- add the benefits of supporting the local economy and being friendlier to the environment and it's just earned an A+.