SANTA MARIA - Chicken nuggets, tatter tots and chocolate milk have been kicked out of many local schools.
Making a change in the school system can be like turning a large ship in a small harbor, but things are turning around when it comes to serving a healthy school lunch thanks to the School Food Initiative.
The School Food Initiative has been working for five years to reform school lunches in Santa Barbara County.
They provide the funding, the framework, and the philosophy. Some hard working food service workers make it happen each day!
Parents are critical to make sure the success continues.
We reached out to four Central Coast Food Service Directors. They have the Top Ten Tips for parents wanting to promote positive school food change.
1- Ask Questions
Talk to your students about the school food.
How was breakfast? How was lunch? How was snack? What did they serve for snack today? What did you like? What's new in the cafeteria? What could be better? How long do you wait for food? Do you have enough time to eat?
2- See For Yourself
Take a field trip to the cafeteria!
Parents can make a huge difference just by visiting their lunch rooms and taking note. Discuss what they've seen and what their concerns are with the Food Service Director of their district.
3- Meet and Talk
Call your school's Food Service Director. They do listen! Ask how you can support better school food. Meet with other parents to identify ways to support your school's Food Service Department.
4- Join Your School's Wellness Committee
Every school receiving funds through the National School Lunch Program is required to have a Wellness Policy. Most districts have a committee of diverse stakeholders that meets to discuss the implementation of the policy. Find out about joining your district's Wellness Committee (or starting one if none exists). This is a great way to help make positive changes at your school.
5- Lend a Hand
Parent volunteers are becoming an essential backbone of food service. In many schools you can help by slicing vegetables and helping to serve.
6- Be a Role Model
Serve good food lessons at home. Children will do as you do!
7- Get Your Child Involved
Let your child have a hand in preparing new foods. If they help make it, they are more likely to eat and enjoy!
8- Encourage Children to Try New Things
Go through the school lunch menu with your child and talk about the healthy selections. Encourage them to sample new foods each month.
9- Visit Your Local Farmers Market
Let your child select fresh fruits and vegetables in season. Introduce your child to a local farmer.
10- Grow a Garden
Children take great delight in growing their own food. Plant a garden no matter how small and watch their enthusiasm for healthy food blossom!
On a personal note, The School Food Initiative has changed the way I look at food. It has changed what I serve to my children. Their contribution to Central Coast schools has created a revolution! Their gift of school kitchen remodels, and training is monumental. They are feeding our future. This mom is profoundly grateful! Jennifer Mandulay
