Frequently asked questions about student nutrition

Q. What is the nutritional value of the foods that are served? Are the meals balanced?

Q. Aren't the French fries, tater tots and breakfast sausages too greasy to serve regularly?

Q. Do the children have enough time to eat their meals?

Q. What if a child cannot afford to pay for a meal?

Q. Why do adult meals cost more than children’s meals when the portions are exactly the same?

Q. Why do the elementary students get a choice of entrees?

Q: What is the nutritional value of the foods that are served? Are the meals balanced?

A: We adhere to the National School Lunch Program guidelines. These guidelines follow the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which recommend that no more than 30 percent of an individual’s calories come from fat, and less than 10 percent from saturated fat. School lunches must provide one-third of the Recommended Dietary Allowances of protein, vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, calcium & calories. These meals are nutritionally balanced by the week and follow the minimum average weekly requirements listed below:

Minimum Calorie & Nutrient Levels (School Week Average)

We offer protein, fruits and vegetables, and milk each and every day. Students may decline one or two items, depending on the school. Desserts are not offered every day. Our high schools all order their lunches ‘a la carte style.

Nutritional Information for ASD-specific menu items
Nutritional information for ASD elementary lunch and breakfast items are now available.

USDA Nutrient Database
Search for the Nutritional Analysis of any food item in the USDA's national nutrient database

Q: Aren't the French fries, tater tots and breakfast sausages too greasy to serve regularly?

A: All food items at elementary & middle schools are baked, not fried. The sausage is low fat.

Q: Do the children have enough time to eat their meals?

A: It is the decision of each individual school, not the Student Nutrition Department, regarding the number of lunch periods and their length.

Q: What if a child cannot afford to pay for a meal?

A: This District participates in the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program (K-8). Submitted applications will be processed in accordance with government eligibility categories or Income Guidelines, plus PFD information. Upon approval, students will qualify for free or reduced-price meals. Check here for more information on the Free and Reduced Price Meal Plans.

Q: Why do adult meals cost more than children’s meals when the portions are exactly the same?

A: The cost of adult meals covers the actual cost of the meal itself. Student Nutrition charges less children's meals because the federal government subsidizes the difference in cost.

Q: Why do the elementary students get a choice of entrees?

A: We offer the students a variety of entrees to choose from to ensure that there is at least one item that the children will like.