Jason and Danielle hit the road to Rancho Cordova for the California Farm to School Summit at Soil Born Farms, and they brought the mic along for the ride.

From a hotel room interview to a garden trail moment with the Governor, this episode captures the energy of a summit that drew attendees from 35 states. Jason and Danielle share their behind-the-scenes takeaways, including the CalSNA Farm to School booth and its interactive map connecting farmers, districts, educators, and aggregators across California. Jason also shares his conversation with First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom about the kitchen infrastructure schools need to make scratch cooking and farm to school last.

In this episode:

• Guest Interview: Nicole Loza, K-12 Account Manager for California with Xceed and Chapter 10 Industry Chair, talks about falling in love with K-12, her first (chaotic) day on the serving line, what makes a strong district and vendor partnership, and why she believes K-12 can be a bridge for California farmers and manufacturers.
• PP&L Spotlight: The School Nutrition Association and 12 national partners are urging USDA to release Section 32 funds as emergency relief for school meal programs. Learn why it matters, what the numbers show, and three quick ways you can take action.
• Two-Minute Tip: “Two and four, then no more.” Danielle and Jason break down the two-stage cooling rule and how to beat the clock safely in your kitchen.
• Summit Recap: Advice for small districts ready to start the farm to school road.

Plus, shout-outs for National Farm to School Month and National School Lunch Week, and a reminder to saddle up for the CalSNA Annual Conference in Long Beach, November 11 to 14. Come find us and say hi!

Every tray, every local apple, it all adds up. Happy Farm to School Month!

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