The phrase “farm-to-school” may sound straightforward, evoking images of fresh, locally grown produce arriving at schools ready to be served in the cafeteria. In practice, however, the journey from farm to tray is far more complex. Factors such as geography, growing seasons, procurement requirements, storage capacity, distribution networks, processing needs and student preferences all shape how local foods reach—and are received by—students. As a result, no two farm-to-school programs are alike, and each reflects the unique opportunities and challenges of its community...