Garfield Elementary School prides itself on providing nutritious, delicious, and balanced lunches for all students. The lunch program is designed to promote healthy eating habits while keeping meals fun and appealing to children of all ages.
The menu is carefully planned by certified nutritionists and school dietitians, ensuring meals meet or exceed USDA nutrition guidelines. Seasonal ingredients, allergy considerations, and cultural diversity are all taken into account to offer a wide variety of choices throughout the school year.
Below you will find the detailed weekly lunch menu, nutritional highlights, and important information about ordering and dietary accommodations.
Weekly Lunch Menu Overview
The Garfield Elementary lunch menu rotates on a four-week cycle to provide variety and balance. Each day includes a main entrée, sides, fruit or vegetable options, and a choice of milk.
Menus are subject to change based on ingredient availability and special school events. Parents and students are encouraged to check the weekly updates posted on the school website.
| Day | Main Entrée | Sides | Fruit/Vegetable | Milk Choice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | Grilled Chicken Sandwich | Steamed Broccoli, Baked Sweet Potato Fries | Fresh Apple Slices | 1% White, Fat-Free Chocolate |
| Tuesday | Cheese Pizza | Garden Salad with Dressing, Carrot Sticks | Orange Wedges | 1% White, Fat-Free Strawberry |
| Wednesday | Beef Tacos with Lettuce & Cheese | Mexican Rice, Refried Beans | Fresh Pineapple Chunks | 1% White, Fat-Free Chocolate |
| Thursday | Vegetable Stir Fry with Tofu | Brown Rice, Steamed Snap Peas | Mixed Berry Cup | 1% White, Fat-Free Strawberry |
| Friday | Fish Nuggets | Coleslaw, Baked Potato Wedges | Fresh Banana | 1% White, Fat-Free Chocolate |
Detailed Daily Menu Description
Monday
The week starts with a classic favorite: a Grilled Chicken Sandwich served on a whole wheat bun. This entrée is packed with lean protein and paired with nutritious sides to provide energy for the day.
The steamed broccoli offers a rich source of vitamins C and K, while the baked sweet potato fries provide fiber and complex carbohydrates. Fresh apple slices complete the meal with natural sweetness and antioxidants.
Tuesday
Tuesday features a beloved option—Cheese Pizza. Made with whole wheat crust and low-fat mozzarella, this pizza balances taste and nutrition.
Accompanying the pizza is a crisp garden salad, including mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers, served with a light dressing. Crunchy carrot sticks add an extra boost of beta-carotene.
Orange wedges provide vitamin C and hydration.
Wednesday
Midweek brings a Mexican-inspired meal: Beef Tacos topped with shredded lettuce and cheese. The tacos are made with lean ground beef seasoned with mild spices suitable for children.
Mexican rice and refried beans round out the plate, delivering fiber, protein, and complex carbs. Sweet fresh pineapple chunks serve as a tropical and refreshing dessert.
Thursday
Thursday’s entrée is a vegetarian option: Vegetable Stir Fry with Tofu. The tofu provides a plant-based protein source while the colorful medley of vegetables offers vitamins and minerals.
Brown rice is served alongside for sustained energy. Steamed snap peas add crunch and fiber.
Mixed berry cups—blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries—offer antioxidants and natural sweetness.
Friday
To finish the week, Fish Nuggets are served crispy and baked, providing healthy omega-3 fatty acids. The side of coleslaw is made with a light dressing to keep it fresh and crunchy.
Baked potato wedges are a healthier alternative to regular fries. Fresh bananas provide potassium and natural sugars for a balanced finish to the meal.
Nutritional Highlights and Standards
Garfield Elementary ensures all lunches conform to the Healthy Hunger-Free Kids Act guidelines. This means every meal provides balanced portions of protein, grains, fruits, vegetables, and dairy.
“Our goal is not only to serve food that tastes good but also promotes lifelong healthy habits in our students.” – School Nutrition Director
Each meal is designed to supply approximately one-third of a child’s daily nutritional requirements. Sodium and saturated fats are kept low, while fiber and essential vitamins are abundant.
Milk choices include 1% low-fat white milk and fat-free flavored options, ensuring calcium and vitamin D intake is optimized.
| Nutrition Element | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 600–700 kcal | 30–35% |
| Protein | 20–25 g | 40–50% |
| Total Fat | 15–20 g | 20–30% |
| Saturated Fat | < 7 g | < 35% |
| Sodium | < 700 mg | < 30% |
| Dietary Fiber | 5–8 g | 20–32% |
| Vitamin A | 500–800 mcg | 50–90% |
| Vitamin C | 40–60 mg | 45–65% |
| Calcium | 300–350 mg | 30–35% |
| Iron | 4–5 mg | 22–28% |
Special Dietary Accommodations
Garfield Elementary is committed to inclusivity and recognizes that some students have specific dietary needs due to allergies, intolerances, religious beliefs, or personal preferences.
Families are encouraged to communicate any special requirements to the school nutrition office well in advance. The cafeteria staff works closely with parents and healthcare providers to create safe and nutritious alternatives.
Allergy Management
The lunch program adheres to strict food safety protocols to prevent cross-contamination. Common allergens such as peanuts, tree nuts, dairy, gluten, and soy are clearly identified on menus and ingredient labels.
Substitute meals are available for students with allergies. For example, gluten-free bread options or dairy-free milk alternatives can be provided when necessary.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Vegetarian dishes are included regularly, such as the vegetable stir fry with tofu. Vegan options can be arranged upon request, ensuring that plant-based students receive adequate protein and nutrients.
Religious and Cultural Considerations
The lunch menu respects various religious dietary laws, including halal and kosher guidelines when possible. Families should notify the school nutrition team to coordinate appropriate meals.
Ordering and Payment Information
Lunches at Garfield Elementary can be purchased on a daily or monthly basis. Parents may prepay via the school’s online portal or send payments with their children in the form of checks or cash.
Free and Reduced-Price Lunch Program: Garfield Elementary participates in the USDA’s Free and Reduced-Price Lunch Program to support families in need. Eligibility applications are available at the school office and online.
Students may also bring their own lunches. However, the school encourages participation in the lunch program to ensure access to balanced meals and social interaction.
| Category | Price per Meal | Monthly Cost (20 school days) |
|---|---|---|
| Paid Lunch | $3.50 | $70.00 |
| Reduced Price Lunch | $0.40 | $8.00 |
| Free Lunch | $0.00 | $0.00 |
Tips for Parents and Students
To get the most out of the Garfield Elementary lunch program, here are some helpful tips:
- Check the weekly menu online or in the school newsletter to discuss meal options with your child.
- Encourage children to try new fruits and vegetables, fostering adventurous and healthy eating habits.
- Send a refillable water bottle to school to promote hydration alongside the lunch meal.
- Communicate any dietary restrictions or preferences early to the school nutrition staff.
- Consider balancing school lunches with healthy breakfasts and dinners for overall well-being.
“Healthy students are happy students. We want every child at Garfield to enjoy their lunch and feel energized for learning.” – Principal Michelle Harper
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can parents visit the lunchroom to eat with their children?
Yes, parents are welcome to join their children for lunch. Visitors should check in at the front office and follow all health and safety protocols.
Are snacks available for purchase?
Currently, the cafeteria offers only full lunch meals. Healthy snacks are encouraged to be brought from home if needed.
What happens if a student forgets their lunch money?
The school provides a temporary meal on credit. Parents will be notified and asked to reimburse the balance promptly.
How are leftovers handled?
Leftover food is composted or donated when possible, supporting the school’s sustainability initiatives.
Is the menu suitable for children with diabetes?
The nutrition team can provide guidance and special meals upon request. Parents should coordinate with school health staff to develop a suitable plan.
Conclusion
The Garfield Elementary Lunch Menu embodies the school’s commitment to fostering healthy growth and academic success through balanced nutrition. By offering a diverse array of meals crafted with care and nutritional expertise, the program supports students’ physical and cognitive development.
Parents, students, and staff all play a role in making the lunch program a success. Through ongoing communication, attention to dietary needs, and encouragement of healthy choices, Garfield Elementary ensures that lunchtime is a positive and nourishing experience for every child.
For the latest updates, menus, and nutrition resources, please visit the Garfield Elementary School website or contact the school nutrition office directly.
