The Hoke County School District takes pride in providing nutritious, balanced, and delicious lunch options for all students. The lunch menu is thoughtfully curated to meet the dietary guidelines set forth by the USDA and to accommodate diverse tastes and nutritional needs.
Each week, the district publishes a detailed lunch menu that includes a variety of entrees, fruits, vegetables, and milk choices. This ensures students receive a wholesome meal that fuels their learning and growth throughout the day.
“Good nutrition is the foundation of academic success. At Hoke County Schools, our lunch menu reflects our commitment to healthy, tasty meals for all students.”
— Director of School Nutrition Services
Weekly Lunch Menu Overview
Hoke County’s lunch menu rotates on a weekly basis with fresh options that promote variety and balance. The menus are designed to comply with the National School Lunch Program regulations, ensuring meals are lower in fat, sodium, and added sugars while high in essential nutrients.
Menus typically include a main entree, at least two vegetable options, a fruit serving, and a choice of milk. Vegetarian and allergen-friendly options are also available to accommodate all students.
| Day | Main Entrée | Vegetable | Fruit | Milk |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | Grilled Chicken Sandwich | Steamed Broccoli | Fresh Apple Slices | 1% Low-Fat or Fat-Free |
| Tuesday | Spaghetti with Meat Sauce | Green Beans | Mixed Fruit Cup | 1% Low-Fat or Fat-Free |
| Wednesday | Cheese Pizza | Garden Salad | Orange Wedges | 1% Low-Fat or Fat-Free |
| Thursday | Turkey & Cheese Wrap | Carrot Sticks | Banana | 1% Low-Fat or Fat-Free |
| Friday | Fish Nuggets | Coleslaw | Peach Slices | 1% Low-Fat or Fat-Free |
Note: Menus are subject to change based on availability and seasonal ingredients.
Nutrition and Dietary Guidelines
Hoke County School Nutrition Services strictly follow USDA nutrition standards, which emphasize the importance of balanced macronutrients and adequate micronutrients to support student health.
Each meal is designed to provide approximately one-third of the daily calorie requirement for children. The meals aim to include:
- Whole grains or enriched grain products
- Lean protein sources
- Fresh or cooked vegetables
- Fresh, canned, or dried fruits
- Low-fat or fat-free milk
“Eating well-balanced meals during the school day improves focus, behavior, and overall academic performance.”
Sample Nutritional Breakdown for Monday’s Lunch
| Component | Amount | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 550 kcal | 27.5% |
| Total Fat | 15 g | 23% |
| Saturated Fat | 3.5 g | 18% |
| Sodium | 700 mg | 29% |
| Carbohydrates | 65 g | 22% |
| Dietary Fiber | 8 g | 32% |
| Protein | 30 g | 60% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
Special Dietary Accommodations
Hoke County is committed to ensuring all students have access to safe and nutritious meals. The district accommodates a range of dietary needs including food allergies, intolerances, vegetarian diets, and religious dietary restrictions.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to communicate any special dietary requirements with the school nutrition staff. Documentation from a healthcare provider may be required for allergy accommodations.
| Dietary Need | Available Options | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gluten-Free | Gluten-free bread, rice, and selected entrees | Separate preparation areas to avoid cross-contamination |
| Vegetarian | Vegetable wraps, cheese pizza, bean-based dishes | Meat-free options daily |
| Lactose Intolerance | Lactose-free milk, dairy alternatives | Available upon request |
| Nut Allergies | Nut-free meal options | Strict kitchen protocols to minimize exposure |
| Religious Restrictions | Halal and Kosher alternatives when requested | Requires advance notification |
Important: Parents should submit special dietary forms at the beginning of the school year or as soon as possible to ensure timely accommodation.
How to Access the Lunch Menu
The Hoke County lunch menu is made easily accessible to parents, students, and staff through multiple channels. This transparency helps families plan meals and ensures students know what to expect each day.
Menus are available:
- On the official Hoke County Schools website under the Nutrition Services section
- Posted in school cafeterias and common areas
- Distributed as printed copies at the start of each week
- Via email newsletters and school apps
Families are encouraged to review the menu regularly and contact Nutrition Services with any questions or feedback.
Benefits of the Hoke County Lunch Program
Participation in the school lunch program offers several benefits beyond just convenient meal access. These benefits include:
- Improved Academic Performance: Proper nutrition supports concentration and cognitive function.
- Social Development: Lunchtime provides an opportunity for social interaction and community building.
- Food Security: Ensures students receive at least one balanced meal daily.
- Healthy Habits: Exposure to a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains encourages lifelong healthy eating.
“The lunch program is a vital part of our mission to support the whole child — mind, body, and spirit.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can students bring lunch from home?
A: Yes. Students may bring lunch from home if they prefer.
However, Hoke County encourages participation in the school lunch program to ensure balanced nutrition.
Q: Are there free or reduced-price lunch options?
A: Yes. Families who qualify based on income can apply for free or reduced-price meals through the district’s application process.
Q: How do I apply for meal benefits?
A: Applications are available online on the Hoke County Schools website or can be picked up at any school office.
Q: What if my child has food allergies?
A: Please notify the school nurse and nutrition services immediately. Special accommodations can be made with proper documentation.
Q: Are vegetarian options available daily?
A: Yes. The menu includes vegetarian entrees or sides every day to accommodate students who do not eat meat.
Contact Information
For further information about the Hoke County Lunch Menu or to discuss special dietary needs, please contact the School Nutrition Services department:
| Phone: | (910) 875-4531 |
| Email: | [email protected] |
| Office Location: | Hoke County Schools Central Office, 601 N. Main Street, Raeford, NC |
| Office Hours: | Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
Visit the official website for additional resources and updates.
Conclusion
The Hoke County Lunch Menu reflects a strong dedication to student health, wellness, and satisfaction. By offering balanced meals that cater to a variety of tastes and dietary needs, the district supports students in their academic journey and overall well-being.
Families are encouraged to engage with the lunch program, provide feedback, and partner with the district to ensure every student receives the nutrition they need to thrive.
Healthy bodies fuel healthy minds — and Hoke County is committed to making that a reality every day at lunch.
