Providing nutritious and delicious meals is a top priority at Brookfield Elementary. Our lunch menu is thoughtfully designed to offer balanced options that promote healthy growth and learning.
Each meal meets the USDA guidelines for school nutrition, ensuring students receive the necessary nutrients to fuel their school day.
Understanding the importance of variety and taste, the menu features a rotation of diverse meals with fresh ingredients. We also accommodate various dietary needs and preferences, making lunch an enjoyable experience for every student.
“A healthy lunch helps children stay focused, energized, and ready to learn throughout the day.”
Weekly Lunch Menu Overview
The Brookfield Elementary lunch menu rotates on a four-week cycle, providing a fresh selection of meals each day of the week. This rotation ensures variety and introduces students to a wide range of foods, helping to develop their palate and encourage healthy eating habits.
| Day | Main Entrée | Vegetable Side | Fruit Side | Milk |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | Grilled Chicken Sandwich | Steamed Broccoli | Fresh Apple Slices | 1% Low Fat or Skim |
| Tuesday | Cheese Pizza | Garden Salad | Orange Wedges | 1% Low Fat or Skim |
| Wednesday | Spaghetti with Meat Sauce | Green Beans | Mixed Fruit Cup | 1% Low Fat or Skim |
| Thursday | Turkey & Cheese Wrap | Carrot Sticks | Banana | 1% Low Fat or Skim |
| Friday | Fish Nuggets | Coleslaw | Pineapple Chunks | 1% Low Fat or Skim |
Note: Milk choices include 1% low-fat white or skim white milk. Chocolate milk is available on Fridays only.
Detailed Menu Description
Monday features the classic Grilled Chicken Sandwich, served on a whole grain bun. The sandwich is paired with lightly steamed broccoli, providing a good source of fiber and vitamins.
Fresh apple slices offer a crisp, sweet complement to the meal.
Tuesday is pizza day with a crowd favorite—Cheese Pizza. It is served alongside a crisp garden salad made with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette dressing.
Orange wedges add a burst of vitamin C to round out the meal.
On Wednesday, students enjoy Spaghetti with Meat Sauce, a hearty entrée rich in protein and iron. The side of green beans adds a crunchy texture and essential nutrients, while the mixed fruit cup provides a refreshing and sweet finish.
Thursday offers a lighter option with a Turkey & Cheese Wrap, featuring lean turkey and low-fat cheese wrapped in a soft whole wheat tortilla. Crunchy carrot sticks and a ripe banana complete this balanced meal.
Friday concludes the week with Fish Nuggets — a great source of omega-3 fatty acids. The fish is paired with creamy coleslaw made from fresh cabbage and carrots, and sweet pineapple chunks for a tropical touch.
Nutrition and Dietary Considerations
Brookfield Elementary is committed to accommodating students with special dietary needs. Our kitchen staff works closely with parents and healthcare providers to ensure safe meal options for children with allergies, intolerances, or specific nutritional requirements.
Common accommodations include gluten-free alternatives, vegetarian options, and allergen-free meals. If your child requires a special diet, please contact the school nutrition office to discuss personalized meal plans.
“Nutrition is not one-size-fits-all. Our goal is to make sure every student gets a healthy lunch that suits their individual needs.”
Allergen Information
Our standard menu items may contain common allergens such as dairy, wheat, soy, eggs, and fish. The kitchen maintains strict protocols to minimize cross-contact, but complete allergen elimination cannot be guaranteed in the standard menu.
Parents of children with food allergies should notify the school nurse and nutrition staff before the start of the school year or at any time when changes occur. Customized menus and ingredient lists are available upon request.
Meal Pricing and Payment Options
Brookfield Elementary offers affordable pricing for school lunches, with options to pay daily, weekly, or in advance for the entire month. Free and reduced-price meal programs are available for qualifying families, ensuring that all students have access to nutritious meals.
| Meal Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Paid Student Lunch | $2.75 |
| Reduced-Price Student Lunch | $0.40 |
| Adult Lunch | $4.00 |
Payments can be made through the school’s online portal, by check, or cash at the cafeteria. For convenience, parents are encouraged to prepay to avoid delays during lunch service.
Healthy Eating Initiatives at Brookfield Elementary
Beyond the menu, Brookfield Elementary actively promotes healthy eating habits through education and engagement. Classroom lessons integrate nutrition topics, encouraging students to make mindful food choices both at school and at home.
Our cafeteria also hosts monthly themed lunch days, such as “Farm-to-Table” and “International Foods,” to expose students to new flavors and cultural cuisines. These events are designed to be fun and educational, fostering a positive relationship with food.
“Our mission is to empower children with knowledge and healthy habits that last a lifetime.”
Farm-to-Table Days
During Farm-to-Table days, the cafeteria features locally sourced produce and meats whenever possible. This initiative supports local farmers and introduces students to fresh, seasonal ingredients.
- Local apples and berries in fruit cups
- Freshly picked tomatoes and leafy greens in salads
- Grass-fed beef in burgers and sandwiches
International Foods
To celebrate diversity and expand horizons, the menu occasionally offers international dishes such as:
- Mexican chicken tacos with salsa and guacamole
- Asian-inspired stir-fried vegetables with rice
- Italian minestrone soup with whole grain bread
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can my child choose different sides? | Sides are set to meet nutritional guidelines but substitutions can be made for allergies or dietary restrictions. |
| Are vegetarian options available every day? | Yes, vegetarian entrées are offered regularly and can be requested in advance. |
| How do I apply for free or reduced lunch? | You can complete an application form available on the school website or at the main office. |
| Can I visit the cafeteria during lunch? | Parents and guardians are welcome to visit by arrangement to join their children for lunch. |
Contact Information
For questions about the lunch menu, dietary accommodations, or payment options, please contact the Brookfield Elementary Nutrition Services Department:
- Phone: (555) 123-4567
- Email: [email protected]
- Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
We encourage parents to stay involved and provide feedback to help continually improve our lunch program. Together, we can ensure every child enjoys a healthy, tasty, and satisfying lunch at Brookfield Elementary.
Conclusion
Brookfield Elementary’s lunch menu is more than just a meal plan—it’s a commitment to the health and well-being of our students. By offering balanced meals, accommodating diverse dietary needs, and promoting nutrition education, we aim to cultivate positive food experiences and lifelong healthy habits.
We invite families to explore the menu, ask questions, and participate in our healthy eating initiatives. Providing children with quality school lunches is a community effort, and your partnership makes a meaningful difference.