Brevard County Schools take great pride in providing nutritious, balanced, and delicious meals to students across the district. The lunch menu is carefully curated to meet dietary guidelines while offering variety and accommodating different tastes and nutritional needs.
Understanding the lunch menu helps parents and students plan their meals better and encourages healthy eating habits. a comprehensive overview of the Brevard County Schools lunch menu, including weekly sample menus, nutritional standards, special dietary accommodations, and tips for making the most of school meals.
Overview of the Lunch Program
The Brevard County Schools lunch program is designed in alignment with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) nutrition standards. These standards ensure that each meal provides a healthy balance of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, protein, and dairy.
Meals are planned to be both appealing and nutritious, helping students maintain energy and focus throughout the school day. The district also emphasizes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible to enhance the meal quality.
“Healthy students are better learners. Our lunch menus reflect our commitment to nourishing body and mind.”
— Brevard County Schools Nutrition Services
Weekly Sample Lunch Menu
To give a clear idea of what students can expect, here is a sample weekly lunch menu for elementary, middle, and high schools in Brevard County. Menus may vary slightly by school and season.
| Day | Main Entrée | Vegetable Side | Fruit | Dairy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | Grilled Chicken Sandwich | Steamed Broccoli | Apple Slices | 1% Low-Fat Milk |
| Tuesday | Cheese Pizza | Garden Salad | Fresh Orange | Fat-Free Chocolate Milk |
| Wednesday | Beef Taco with Lettuce & Cheese | Refried Beans | Banana | 1% Low-Fat Milk |
| Thursday | Spaghetti with Meat Sauce | Green Beans | Mixed Fruit Cup | Fat-Free Chocolate Milk |
| Friday | Fish Sticks | Carrot Sticks | Grapes | 1% Low-Fat Milk |
Nutritional Guidelines and Standards
All meals served in Brevard County Schools follow federal and state nutritional guidelines. The program focuses on limiting saturated fats, sodium, and added sugars, while increasing fiber and essential nutrients.
Key components of the nutritional guidelines include:
- At least ½ cup of fruit or vegetables per meal
- A variety of colorful vegetables throughout the week
- Whole grain-rich foods at least once daily
- Lean protein sources such as poultry, fish, or plant-based options
- Low-fat or fat-free dairy products
Menus are reviewed regularly by registered dietitians to ensure they meet the nutritional needs of growing children and teenagers. This careful planning helps support student health and academic success.
Special Dietary Accommodations
Brevard County Schools recognize that some students have special dietary needs due to allergies, religious practices, or medical conditions. The nutrition services department works closely with families and healthcare providers to offer safe and appropriate meal options.
Common accommodations include:
- Allergen-free meals: Options free from common allergens like nuts, dairy, gluten, or eggs.
- Vegetarian and vegan choices: Plant-based meals that provide adequate protein and nutrients.
- Religious dietary needs: Meals that respect dietary laws such as halal or kosher.
- Medical or therapeutic diets: Customized meals for students with diabetes, celiac disease, or other health conditions.
Parents are encouraged to contact the school nutrition services office early in the school year to discuss any special requirements. A diet modification form may be required, supported by a medical professional’s documentation.
How to Access the Lunch Menu
The current lunch menu is easily accessible online through the Brevard County Schools website. Menus are updated monthly and include detailed nutritional information for each item.
Additionally, many schools provide printed menus for students and parents. The district also offers a mobile app where parents can view menus, check nutritional details, and even make meal payments.
Benefits of accessing the lunch menu in advance:
- Helps students plan their meals and try new foods
- Assists parents in monitoring their child’s nutrition
- Allows for pre-ordering or choosing meals for students with special needs
Pricing and Payment Options
School lunches in Brevard County are offered at competitive prices to ensure affordability for all families. Prices vary depending on whether the student qualifies for free or reduced lunch programs.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Full-Pay Student | $2.50 |
| Reduced-Price Student | $0.40 |
| Adult Meal | $3.75 |
Families can add funds to their student’s meal account online or at the school cafeteria. Prepaying for multiple days or weeks is encouraged to simplify the lunch process and reduce cash handling.
Healthy Eating Tips for Students
While the lunch menu is designed to promote health, students can take additional steps to maximize the benefits of their school meals.
- Try new fruits and vegetables: Exploring different options can help build lifelong healthy eating habits.
- Balance your plate: Combine protein, grains, and produce for sustained energy.
- Drink your milk: Dairy provides calcium and vitamin D essential for strong bones.
- Limit extra snacks: Rely on the nutritious school lunch to fuel your day instead of sugary or processed snacks.
Students are encouraged to provide feedback on menu items. The school nutrition services team values student input to make meals more enjoyable and tailored to preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can students bring their own lunch?
A: Yes, students may bring packed lunches from home. However, they are encouraged to participate in the school lunch program to benefit from balanced meals designed by nutrition experts.
Q: Are beverages like soda allowed during lunch?
A: Soda and sugary drinks are not offered as part of the school lunch program. Students can purchase water, 100% fruit juice, or milk instead.
Q: How does the school accommodate food allergies?
A: The nutrition services team works diligently to provide allergen-safe meals and prevent cross-contact. Parents must inform the school and provide medical documentation to ensure safety.
Q: Is breakfast available at Brevard County Schools?
A: Yes, most schools offer a breakfast program with a variety of nutritious options to start the day right.
Conclusion
The Brevard County Schools lunch menu reflects a strong commitment to student health and well-being. By offering varied, nutrient-rich meals in a welcoming environment, the program supports academic success and lifelong healthy habits.
Families are encouraged to review menus regularly, communicate special dietary needs, and partner with schools to promote nutritious eating. Together, we can ensure every student has access to meals that energize their bodies and minds.
