Providing nutritious and delicious meals is a priority at Quail Glen Elementary. Our lunch program is designed to offer balanced options that fuel students’ growth, learning, and energy throughout the school day.
Each day features a variety of meals that meet USDA guidelines for student nutrition. We carefully select ingredients to ensure meals are appealing, wholesome, and accommodate a range of dietary needs.
“Healthy meals help create healthy minds. At Quail Glen Elementary, we believe lunchtime is an opportunity to nourish both body and spirit.” – School Nutrition Director
Weekly Lunch Menu Overview
The lunch menu rotates weekly, featuring diverse cuisines and seasonal favorites. We encourage students to try new foods while also offering familiar classics to keep everyone satisfied.
| Day | Main Entrée | Side Dishes | Beverage | Dessert / Fruit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | Grilled Chicken Sandwich | Steamed Broccoli, Carrot Sticks | Low-fat Milk or Water | Fresh Apple Slices |
| Tuesday | Cheese Quesadilla | Mexican Rice, Black Beans | Low-fat Milk or Water | Chilled Pineapple |
| Wednesday | Spaghetti with Meat Sauce | Garlic Bread, Garden Salad | Low-fat Milk or Water | Mixed Berries |
| Thursday | Turkey & Cheese Wrap | Sweet Potato Fries, Celery Sticks | Low-fat Milk or Water | Orange Wedges |
| Friday | Homemade Cheese Pizza | Caesar Salad, Green Peas | Low-fat Milk or Water | Banana |
Nutrition Philosophy
Our lunch menu is carefully designed to provide balanced nutrition. Each meal includes a lean protein, whole grains, a variety of vegetables, and fresh fruit to ensure students receive essential vitamins and minerals.
We follow these core principles:
- Limit added sugars and saturated fats
- Incorporate whole grains in at least one item daily
- Use fresh, seasonal produce whenever possible
- Offer low-fat and fat-free dairy options
- Provide alternatives for students with allergies or dietary restrictions
Sample Nutritional Breakdown
For example, the Monday grilled chicken sandwich meal provides approximately:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 550 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Total Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 65 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 8 g |
| Sodium | 700 mg |
Special Dietary Accommodations
Recognizing the diverse needs of our students, Quail Glen Elementary provides options for children with allergies, intolerances, or special diets. Parents and guardians can communicate specific needs to our nutrition staff for personalized meal plans.
Common accommodations include:
- Gluten-free alternatives: Available for students with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
- Dairy-free options: Substitutes such as soy or almond milk provided upon request.
- Vegetarian meals: Meatless entrées offered regularly to support plant-based diets.
- Nut-free environment: Meals prepared in nut-free zones to minimize risk for allergies.
Parents should reach out at the start of the school year or as soon as dietary needs arise to ensure timely accommodations.
Lunch Pricing and Payment Options
The school lunch program is affordable and designed to maximize accessibility. Current pricing is as follows:
| Meal Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Full Lunch (entrée + sides + drink + dessert) | $3.00 |
| Milk Only | $0.50 |
| Extra Entrée | $1.50 |
To simplify payments, the school uses an online portal where families can prepay for meals. Cash or check payments are also accepted in the school cafeteria.
Free and reduced-price lunch programs are available for qualifying families.
“Ensuring every child has access to nutritious meals is fundamental to our mission. We encourage families to apply for assistance programs to avoid missing out on these vital resources.” – School Principal
Monthly Seasonal Specials
In addition to the rotating weekly menu, Quail Glen Elementary celebrates seasonal and cultural events with special themed lunches. These meals introduce students to new flavors and traditions while maintaining nutritional standards.
| Month | Special Theme | Featured Dishes |
|---|---|---|
| October | Harvest Festival | Pumpkin Soup, Roasted Root Vegetables, Apple Crisp |
| November | Thanksgiving Feast | Roast Turkey, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans, Cranberry Sauce |
| February | International Flavors | Asian Stir-fry, Mediterranean Hummus Wrap, Fruit Kabobs |
| May | Spring Garden | Grilled Vegetable Panini, Fresh Salads, Berry Parfait |
These specials provide excitement and variety, encouraging students to engage with their meals enthusiastically.
Healthy Eating Tips for Students
Lunch is just one part of a healthy day. We encourage students and families to adopt habits that promote overall wellness.
Here are some simple tips to complement our school lunch offerings:
- Eat a colorful plate: Incorporate fruits and vegetables of different colors to maximize nutrient intake.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially before and after lunch.
- Limit sugary snacks: Choose natural sweets like fruit over candy or sugary drinks.
- Practice mindful eating: Take time to enjoy food without distractions for better digestion and satisfaction.
By working together, the school and families can help children develop a positive relationship with food that lasts a lifetime.
How to Access the Lunch Menu
The lunch menu is updated monthly and is accessible in several convenient ways:
- School Website: A downloadable PDF menu is posted at the start of each month.
- Mobile App: Families can view daily menus and nutritional info via the school’s nutrition app.
- Printed Copies: Available upon request in the school office or cafeteria.
Parents are encouraged to review the menu in advance to help children make informed choices and discuss any preferences or concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can students bring lunch from home? | Yes, students may bring their own lunch. However, we encourage balanced meals and ask families to avoid nuts to protect children with allergies. |
| Are there vegetarian options daily? | Yes, vegetarian options are available at least three times per week. Please check the menu for specific days. |
| What if my child has food allergies? | Contact the school nurse and nutrition staff to develop a safe meal plan tailored to your child’s needs. |
| How do I apply for free or reduced-price lunch? | Applications are available on the school website and in the main office. Assistance is confidential and easy to apply for. |
Contact Information
For questions about the lunch program, menu options, or dietary accommodations, please reach out to our School Nutrition Department:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (555) 123-4567
Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM
We welcome feedback and suggestions to continuously improve our lunch offerings and ensure every child enjoys mealtime.
Conclusion
Quail Glen Elementary is committed to supporting the health and well-being of our students through a thoughtfully crafted lunch menu. By balancing nutrition, taste, and variety, we aim to make lunchtime a positive and nourishing part of the school day.
Families are encouraged to stay informed about menu options, communicate dietary needs, and help foster healthy eating habits at home. Together, we can create an environment where children thrive academically and physically.
