May 7, 2021 - Between preparing healthy food, adhering to strict nutrition standards, navigating student food allergies, and offering service with a smile, MISD's Child Nutrition Services (CNS) professionals have a lot on their plate. To celebrate their hard work and commitment, Midland ISD is celebrating School Lunch Hero Day on Friday, May 7. The School Nutrition Association launched this day of recognition in 2013.
At Bunche Elementary, where faculty is preparing special gift bags that will be delivered to the nutrition staff on Friday.
“Our cafeteria staff is such an important part of culture here at Bunche. We recognize and appreciate what they do for our students," said Bunche Principal Mary Lehrer. "Many of them get to know our students, and this is just a small way we can say thank you."
Federal nutrition standards ensure that school cafeterias always offer low-fat or fat-free milk, fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein. School meals also meet limits on calories, sodium and unhealthy fats. A study recently released by the
Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA) found that 76% of child meals consumed at school were considered "healthy" compared to only 20% and 48% from restaurants and entertainment venues, respectively. The study showed children's meals from grocery stores were only healthy about 55% of the time.
“School nutrition employees must balance many roles and follow numerous federal, state and local regulations to ensure safe and healthy meals are available in schools," said CNS Director Victoria Beck. "School Lunch Hero Day provides the opportunity for the community to thank these hardworking heroes."
The importance and nutritional value of school meals are well documented. For many children, school lunch is the most important and nutrient-rich meal of their day. Midland ISD serves approximately 24,000 meals (breakfast and lunch) every day.
