At Glenwood Elementary School, we understand the importance of providing nutritious, delicious, and balanced meals to support the health and growth of our students. Our school lunch menu is thoughtfully designed each month with a variety of appealing options that meet federal nutrition guidelines.
We encourage parents and students to explore the menus and learn about the ingredients and nutritional values of the meals served. Proper lunch choices can improve concentration, energy levels, and overall well-being during the school day.
“Healthy eating habits developed in childhood pave the way for a lifetime of wellness and success.” – Glenwood Nutrition Services Team
Monthly Lunch Menu Overview
The Glenwood lunch menu rotates monthly, featuring a mix of classic favorites and new, exciting dishes. Each day offers a main entrée, a side dish, fresh fruits or vegetables, and a beverage option.
Our culinary team prioritizes fresh, locally sourced produce and whole grains whenever possible.
Menus are posted online at the beginning of each month so families can plan ahead, and students can get excited about their daily meals. Special dietary accommodations are available upon request to ensure every child’s needs are met.
Sample Weekly Menu (March 2024)
| Day | Main Entrée | Side Dish | Vegetable/Fruit | Beverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | Grilled Chicken Sandwich | Sweet Potato Fries | Steamed Broccoli | Low-fat Milk |
| Tuesday | Cheese Pizza | Garden Salad | Fresh Apple Slices | 100% Fruit Juice |
| Wednesday | Beef Tacos | Spanish Rice | Refried Beans | Low-fat Milk |
| Thursday | Vegetarian Pasta Primavera | Garlic Breadstick | Carrot Sticks | Water |
| Friday | Fish Sticks | Mashed Potatoes | Green Peas | Low-fat Milk |
Nutrition and Dietary Guidelines
Our menu follows the USDA’s National School Lunch Program nutrition standards. This means each meal must include:
- Fruits and Vegetables: At least half of the plate consists of fruits and vegetables.
- Whole Grains: A serving of whole grains to support fiber intake.
- Lean Proteins: Sources such as poultry, fish, beans, or low-fat dairy.
- Calorie Limits: Calories are balanced to provide appropriate energy for growing children.
- Reduced Sodium and Saturated Fat: To promote heart health and long-term wellness.
We also provide allergen information for every meal. Common allergens like nuts, dairy, and gluten are clearly listed to help parents and students avoid reactions.
Typical Nutritional Breakdown for a Daily Lunch
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | Daily Value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 600 – 700 kcal | 30-35% |
| Protein | 20 – 25 grams | 40-50% |
| Dietary Fiber | 5 – 8 grams | 20-30% |
| Calcium | 300 mg | 30% |
| Iron | 4 mg | 25% |
| Sodium | < 700 mg | ~30% |
| Saturated Fat | < 10% of total calories | — |
Special Diets and Allergy Accommodations
Glenwood Elementary is committed to providing safe, inclusive meal options for students with special dietary needs. Families should communicate any allergies, intolerances, or medical dietary restrictions to the school nurse and nutrition services team.
Our kitchen staff is trained to handle allergies and cross-contamination prevention carefully. Gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, and vegan options are regularly available.
We also highlight menu items that are peanut-free or tree nut-free.
Parents are advised to fill out a Special Diet Request Form at the start of the school year or upon diagnosis of a new dietary need. This helps ensure meals are custom-prepared or substituted safely.
Examples of Allergy-Friendly Options
| Allergen | Menu Options |
|---|---|
| Gluten-Free | Rice bowls, grilled chicken with veggies, fresh fruits, and certain salads |
| Dairy-Free | Bean and vegetable wraps (without cheese), fresh fruit cups, and dairy-free milk alternatives |
| Nut-Free | Most sandwiches, pasta dishes, and vegetable sides; peanut-free baking days |
| Vegetarian | Cheese pizza, pasta primavera, black bean tacos, and garden salads |
How to Access the Lunch Menu and Ordering System
The Glenwood Elementary lunch menu is accessible through the school’s official website and the dedicated mobile app. Families can view daily and monthly menus, nutritional information, and allergen alerts at any time.
Meal payments and account management are handled through our online portal. This system offers convenient prepayment options, balance tracking, and automatic notifications when funds run low.
Students who bring lunch from home can still participate in school meal programs on days they wish. The cafeteria staff welcomes all students with friendly service and a positive dining environment.
Ordering and Payment Information
- Pre-order lunches through the online portal by midnight the day before.
- Payments accepted via credit/debit card or electronic check.
- Free and reduced-price meal applications are available for qualifying families.
- Contact the nutrition office for assistance with account setup or meal plan questions.
Benefits of School Lunch Participation
Participating in the Glenwood Elementary lunch program offers many advantages beyond just nourishment. School meals are designed to fuel students’ learning and physical activity.
Balanced meals help improve memory, mood, and stamina throughout the day.
Sharing lunch with peers also promotes social engagement, builds friendships, and fosters a sense of community. Our cafeteria environment is safe, welcoming, and supportive, encouraging students to enjoy their mealtime.
“Eating well at school helps our kids feel their best and perform their best.” – Mrs. Linda Carter, Principal, Glenwood Elementary School
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can students with food allergies still participate in the lunch program?
A: Absolutely. We work closely with families and healthcare providers to provide safe meal options and prevent allergen exposure.
Q: Are vegetarian or vegan options available every day?
A: We include vegetarian meals multiple times per week and are expanding vegan offerings based on student demand and nutrition standards.
Q: How do I know if my child qualifies for free or reduced-price meals?
A: Eligibility is based on household income and size. Applications can be submitted online or at the school office confidentially.
Q: What beverages are served with lunch?
A: Students can choose from low-fat milk, 100% fruit juice, or water. Sugar-sweetened beverages are not offered.
Tips for Encouraging Healthy Lunch Habits
Parents and caregivers play an essential role in fostering lifelong healthy eating habits. Here are some tips to encourage children to enjoy school lunches and appreciate nutritious foods:
- Discuss the menu in advance. Preview the weekly menu and talk about the foods your child will try.
- Encourage variety. Help kids experiment with new vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.
- Model healthy choices. Eat balanced meals yourself to set a positive example.
- Pack fruits or veggies. If your child brings lunch, include colorful produce to complement their meal.
- Celebrate mealtime. Make lunch a fun, relaxed part of the school day.
Contact Information for Glenwood Elementary Nutrition Services
If you have questions about the lunch menu, dietary accommodations, or payment options, please reach out to our Nutrition Services team. We are happy to assist families in ensuring every student receives a nutritious and enjoyable meal every day.
| Office Phone: | (555) 123-4567 |
| Email: | [email protected] |
| Office Hours: | Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Website: | www.glenwoodelementary.edu/nutrition |
Note: Please notify the school nurse and nutrition services if your child has any changes in dietary needs during the school year. We are committed to adapting menus to support all students.
Conclusion
The Glenwood Elementary School lunch program is dedicated to providing healthy, tasty meals that nourish our students and support their academic success. We believe that good nutrition is a cornerstone of education and well-being.
By offering diverse menu options, carefully considering dietary needs, and maintaining transparent communication with families, Glenwood strives to create a positive mealtime experience for every child.
We invite parents, teachers, and students to explore the menu regularly and participate in nutrition education initiatives throughout the year.
Healthy kids are happy kids — and at Glenwood Elementary, we are proud to serve meals that fuel bright futures.
