Providing nutritious and delicious meals is a priority at Kennedy Elementary School. The lunch menu is thoughtfully crafted to offer students a well-balanced diet that supports their growth, learning, and overall health.
Each week features a variety of options that cater to different tastes and dietary needs.
Our lunch program not only focuses on taste but also emphasizes fresh ingredients, whole grains, and balanced portions. The menu is updated monthly, ensuring that students enjoy seasonal produce and wholesome meals throughout the school year.
“Good nutrition is the foundation of learning. A healthy lunch fuels bright minds and happy hearts.” – Kennedy Elementary Nutrition Department
Weekly Lunch Menu Overview
The lunch menu at Kennedy Elementary is organized weekly, with each day offering a main entrée, sides, fruits, and beverages. Vegetarian and allergen-friendly options are available daily to accommodate all students.
| Day | Main Entrée | Sides | Fruit | Vegetarian Option |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | Grilled Chicken Sandwich | Steamed Broccoli, Sweet Potato Fries | Fresh Apple Slices | Veggie Burger |
| Tuesday | Spaghetti with Meat Sauce | Garlic Bread, Side Salad | Orange Wedges | Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce |
| Wednesday | Beef Taco Bowl | Mexican Rice, Black Beans | Banana | Bean & Cheese Taco Bowl |
| Thursday | Oven-Baked Fish Sticks | Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans | Mixed Berries | Cheese Quesadilla |
| Friday | Cheese Pizza | Caesar Salad, Carrot Sticks | Grapes | Cheese Pizza |
Nutrition and Dietary Guidelines
The Kennedy Elementary lunch program strictly adheres to the USDA’s National School Lunch Program (NSLP) guidelines. Meals are designed to provide at least one-third of the daily recommended intake of key nutrients such as protein, calcium, iron, and vitamins A and C.
Whole grains are incorporated into breads and pasta to promote digestive health. Additionally, low-fat dairy options like milk and yogurt are served daily to support bone development.
We understand the importance of accommodating students with food allergies and special dietary restrictions. Please notify the school nurse or cafeteria staff if your child requires a modified meal plan.
Sample Detailed Daily Menu
Monday
Main Entrée: Grilled Chicken Sandwich served on a whole wheat bun. The chicken is marinated with herbs and grilled to perfection, providing a lean source of protein.
Sides: Steamed broccoli and sweet potato fries complement the entrée. Broccoli supplies fiber and vitamins, while sweet potato fries offer a natural sweetness and are baked to reduce fat content.
Fruit: Fresh apple slices are served as a refreshing and crisp finish to the meal.
Beverage: Low-fat milk or 100% fruit juice is available daily to accompany the lunch.
Tuesday
Main Entrée: Spaghetti with meat sauce, featuring lean ground beef simmered in a tomato-based sauce with herbs and vegetables.
Sides: Garlic bread made with whole grain flour and a side salad that includes spinach, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers with a light vinaigrette.
Fruit: Orange wedges provide vitamin C and a zesty flavor.
Wednesday
Main Entrée: Beef taco bowl with seasoned ground beef, served over Mexican rice and black beans.
Sides: The black beans add protein and fiber, while the rice is prepared with mild spices and vegetables.
Fruit: A ripe banana offers energy and potassium.
Thursday
Main Entrée: Oven-baked fish sticks made from white fish fillets breaded with whole grain crumbs.
Sides: Creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans make a comforting combination.
Fruit: Mixed berries including strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries provide antioxidants.
Friday
Main Entrée: Cheese pizza on a whole wheat crust, topped with low-fat mozzarella and tomato sauce.
Sides: Caesar salad with romaine lettuce and a light dressing, plus crunchy carrot sticks.
Fruit: Fresh grapes are served as a naturally sweet treat.
Special Menus and Seasonal Highlights
Throughout the school year, Kennedy Elementary offers special themed lunch days to celebrate cultural diversity and promote healthy eating habits. Examples include:
- Harvest Festival: Featuring seasonal vegetables like squash, pumpkins, and apples in dishes such as pumpkin soup and roasted vegetable medleys.
- International Cuisine Week: Introducing students to global flavors with dishes like chicken teriyaki, Mediterranean falafel wraps, and Mexican enchiladas.
- Farm-to-Table Days: Showcasing locally sourced produce and dairy products to support community farmers and provide fresh ingredients.
These special menus are designed to encourage curiosity about different cultures and the importance of fresh, sustainable food choices.
How Parents Can Support Healthy Lunch Habits
Parents play a crucial role in fostering healthy eating habits. Encouraging children to try new foods and discussing the benefits of balanced meals can positively influence their choices at school.
Suggestions for parents include:
- Reviewing the weekly menu with your child and discussing which meals they look forward to.
- Encouraging them to taste at least one new food item each week.
- Sending healthy snacks if your child prefers to supplement their lunch.
- Communicating with cafeteria staff if your child has allergies or dietary needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can students choose a vegetarian meal every day? | Yes, vegetarian options are available daily and are prepared with balanced nutrition in mind. |
| Are there gluten-free meal options? | Gluten-free options are available upon request. Parents should notify the school in advance for accommodations. |
| How can I find the monthly lunch menu? | The monthly menu is posted on the school’s website and sent home via email newsletters. |
| What beverages are served with lunch? | Students can choose between low-fat milk and 100% fruit juice daily. |
| Can students bring lunch from home? | Yes, students may bring their own lunch. However, Kennedy Elementary encourages balanced, healthy meals and snacks. |
Contact Information and Feedback
We welcome feedback from parents, students, and staff to continually improve our lunch program. If you have suggestions, concerns, or questions, please reach out to the Kennedy Elementary Nutrition Department.
Contact Details:
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: (555) 123-4567
- Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Together, we can ensure that every student at Kennedy Elementary enjoys a healthy, tasty, and satisfying lunch experience each day.
