Blaney Elementary School is committed to providing students with nutritious, delicious, and balanced meals each day. The lunch menu is carefully crafted to meet dietary guidelines and to accommodate diverse tastes and nutritional needs.
Every item on the menu is designed to fuel young minds and bodies for optimal learning and growth.
Understanding what your child will eat at school is important for parents and guardians. an in-depth look at the weekly lunch menu, nutritional considerations, allergen information, and tips to make the most of school lunches.
Weekly Lunch Menu Overview
The Blaney Elementary lunch menu rotates weekly to provide variety while ensuring balanced nutrition. The rotation helps introduce students to different foods and cuisines, encouraging adventurous eating habits and reducing menu fatigue.
Below is the sample weekly lunch menu for Blaney Elementary, including main dishes, sides, and desserts.
| Day | Main Entrée | Sides | Dessert | Beverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | Grilled Chicken Sandwich | Steamed Broccoli, Carrot Sticks | Fresh Apple Slices | Low-fat Milk or Water |
| Tuesday | Cheese Pizza | Garden Salad with Dressing | Yogurt Cup | Low-fat Milk or Water |
| Wednesday | Beef Taco with Lettuce & Cheese | Mexican Rice, Corn | Orange Wedges | Low-fat Milk or Water |
| Thursday | Spaghetti with Meat Sauce | Green Beans, Garlic Bread | Fruit Cup | Low-fat Milk or Water |
| Friday | Fish Sticks | Mashed Potatoes, Peas | Chocolate Chip Cookie | Low-fat Milk or Water |
“Our goal is to combine taste, nutrition, and fun. We believe a happy, nourished student is a successful student.” – Blaney Elementary Food Services Director
Nutrition and Dietary Guidelines
Blaney Elementary follows the USDA’s School Lunch Program guidelines to ensure meals are balanced and promote healthy eating habits. Meals include appropriate servings of protein, grains, fruits, vegetables, and dairy.
Key nutritional highlights include:
- Use of whole grain breads and pastas.
- Fresh fruits and vegetables offered daily.
- Lean sources of protein like grilled chicken, fish, and beans.
- Limited added sugars and saturated fats.
- Portion sizes adjusted for different grade levels.
Each meal provides approximately 600-700 calories, balancing energy needs without excess. Sodium and fat content are carefully monitored to align with national recommendations.
Allergen and Special Diet Accommodations
Allergen awareness is a priority at Blaney Elementary. The lunch menus clearly identify common allergens and the cafeteria staff is trained to handle food allergies safely.
Common allergens considered include: peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, wheat, soy, fish, and shellfish.
Parents are asked to notify the school nurse and kitchen staff of any food allergies or dietary restrictions their child may have. Modified menus and substitutions are available for students with documented needs.
| Menu Item | Common Allergens |
|---|---|
| Grilled Chicken Sandwich | Wheat (bun), Soy (marinade) |
| Cheese Pizza | Milk, Wheat |
| Beef Taco | Wheat (tortilla), Milk (cheese) |
| Spaghetti with Meat Sauce | Wheat, Milk (in sauce) |
| Fish Sticks | Fish, Wheat |
Note: Cross-contact precautions are in place, but families with severe allergies should consult with the school nurse for individualized plans.
How to Read the Lunch Menu
The lunch menu is designed to be straightforward and informative. Each day’s menu lists the main entrée, sides, dessert, and beverage.
Nutritional and allergen information is available in cafeteria postings and online.
Menus are distributed monthly and posted on the school’s website. Parents can use the menu to plan for their child’s lunch preferences or pack supplementary snacks if needed.
When reviewing the menu, consider your child’s likes and dislikes, and encourage them to try new foods. Participation in the school lunch program also ensures they receive a well-rounded meal without the stress of packing every day.
“One of our biggest successes has been seeing students discover new favorites on the menu. It’s not just lunch; it’s an opportunity to learn about nutrition and culture.” – Chef Anna, School Food Services
Lunch Prices and Payment Options
Blaney Elementary offers affordable lunch options to all students. Prices are set to ensure accessibility while supporting the quality of ingredients and preparation.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Full-Priced Lunch | $3.00 |
| Reduced-Price Lunch | $0.40 |
| Free Lunch (Eligible Students) | No Cost |
| Milk Only | $0.50 |
Payments can be made online through the school’s payment portal or in person at the school cafeteria. Parents are encouraged to prepay for lunches to simplify the daily process.
For families experiencing financial hardship, the school participates in the National School Lunch Program, which provides free or reduced-price meals based on eligibility.
Tips for Parents to Support Healthy Lunch Habits
Children’s eating habits are shaped by both home and school environments. Parents can play an active role in supporting healthy choices at lunch time.
- Discuss the menu: Review the weekly menu with your child to generate excitement and encourage trying new foods.
- Pack snacks wisely: If your child wants extra snacks, choose nutritious options like fruit, nuts, or yogurt rather than sugary treats.
- Encourage hydration: Remind your child to drink water throughout the day, especially if they skip the milk offered at lunch.
- Communicate with staff: Inform the cafeteria team of any special dietary needs or preferences your child has.
“Children thrive when their nutritional needs are met consistently. Partnering with families makes our efforts even more successful.” – Registered Dietitian at Blaney Elementary
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my child bring lunch from home?
Yes, students may bring lunch from home. However, the school encourages participation in the school lunch program to ensure balanced nutrition.
If packing lunch, please avoid nuts to protect students with allergies.
Are there vegetarian or vegan options?
The menu includes vegetarian options such as cheese pizza and bean tacos. Vegan options are limited but can be requested in advance by contacting the food services department.
What if my child has food allergies?
Notify the school nurse and cafeteria staff immediately. The school will work with families to provide safe alternatives and accommodate dietary restrictions.
How can I find the menu each month?
The menu is posted on the Blaney Elementary website and sent home with students monthly. Paper copies are available upon request at the main office.
Conclusion
The Blaney Elementary Lunch Menu reflects a commitment to health, safety, and student satisfaction. By offering varied, nutritious options and accommodating special needs, the school fosters an environment where every child can enjoy mealtime.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to stay informed and involved in the lunch program, helping their children develop a positive relationship with food. Whether enjoying a hot meal in the cafeteria or bringing a packed lunch, the focus remains on supporting the wellbeing and success of every student.
For more information or to provide feedback, contact Blaney Elementary Food Services at (555) 123-4567 or email [email protected].
