Dothan City Schools Lunch Menu

Weekly Lunch Menu Overview

The Dothan City Schools lunch menu rotates on a weekly basis to provide variety and balance throughout the month. Below is a sample weekly menu that highlights the types of meals served.

Note that menus may be subject to change based on availability of ingredients and seasonal produce.

Note: Daily menus include a salad bar option for middle and high school students. Seasonal fruits and vegetables are incorporated as available.

Nutritional Guidelines and Goals

Dothan City Schools adheres strictly to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) standards for school meals. The goal is to provide balanced meals that support growth, learning, and overall health of students.

The key nutritional goals include:

• Limiting saturated fats and added sugars
• Providing sufficient protein for energy and development
• Including at least two servings of fruits and vegetables daily
• Offering whole grains as a primary carbohydrate source
• Providing low-fat or fat-free dairy options

“Healthy eating in schools contributes to better academic performance and lifelong wellness.” – Dothan City Schools Nutrition Department

Menus are reviewed regularly by registered dietitians to ensure compliance with these standards while maintaining palatability and variety. This approach helps students develop healthy eating habits early in life.

Special Dietary Accommodations

Dothan City Schools recognizes that some students require special dietary accommodations due to allergies, medical conditions, or personal preferences. The lunch program provides several options to accommodate these needs safely and inclusively.

Food Allergy Management

The school nutrition staff works closely with parents and healthcare providers to identify allergies and develop individualized meal plans. Common allergens such as peanuts, tree nuts, dairy, soy, wheat, and eggs are carefully managed to reduce risk of exposure.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Vegetarian options are available daily, with plant-based proteins such as beans, lentils, and soy products incorporated regularly. Vegan meals can be requested in advance by contacting the school nutrition office.

Gluten-Free Alternatives

For students with gluten intolerance or celiac disease, gluten-free bread, pasta, and snack items are provided when possible. Parents should notify the school to ensure these accommodations are made.

Parents and guardians are encouraged to communicate any dietary restrictions or special nutritional needs with school officials to ensure safe and satisfying meals.

How to Access the Lunch Menu

The most current lunch menus are available on the Dothan City Schools official website. Menus are updated monthly and can be viewed by school or grade level.

In addition to the online menu, printed menus are often distributed at the beginning of each month. Parents can also sign up for email notifications to receive updates on menu changes, special events, or nutritional initiatives.

For quick reference, the menus include detailed descriptions of each meal, nutritional information, and icons indicating vegetarian, gluten-free, or allergy-friendly options.

Meal Pricing and Payment Options

The Dothan City Schools lunch program offers affordable pricing with options for free and reduced-price meals for eligible families. The program participates in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) to ensure access to nutritious meals for all students.

Payments can be made online through the school district’s secure portal or in person at the school cafeteria. Parents are encouraged to prepay for meals to streamline the checkout process for students.

Meal accounts can be monitored through the online system, allowing parents to track purchases and balances easily.

Benefits of a Well-Designed School Lunch Program

School lunches play a critical role in supporting students’ academic success and physical well-being. Proper nutrition enhances concentration, energy levels, and overall mood, which positively impacts classroom performance.

Dothan City Schools’ lunch program aims to:

• Promote healthy eating habits through education and exposure
• Provide meals that meet dietary needs without sacrificing taste
• Encourage social interaction during meals in a positive environment
• Support local agriculture by sourcing fresh produce when possible

“Investing in student nutrition is investing in the future of our community.” – Superintendent of Dothan City Schools

Tips for Parents to Support Healthy Lunch Habits

Parents are vital partners in encouraging healthy eating habits. Here are some ways to support your child’s nutrition within the school lunch framework:

• Review the weekly lunch menu with your child to build excitement and involvement.
• Discuss the importance of trying new foods and balanced meals.
• Pack supplementary snacks if your child has higher energy needs, ensuring they are nutritious.
• Communicate any dietary restrictions or preferences to the school nutrition staff.
• Encourage hydration by sending a water bottle with your child.

By fostering open communication and positive attitudes around school meals, parents help children develop lifelong healthy eating patterns.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can students bring their own lunch instead of eating the school lunch?

A: Yes, students may bring lunch from home. However, parents are encouraged to ensure these meals are balanced and nutritious.

Q: What if my child has multiple food allergies?

A: Please contact the school nurse and nutrition services to create an individualized meal plan that safely accommodates all allergies.

Q: Are there options for students who do not like the main entrée?

A: Yes, students can choose from alternative items such as salad bar options, fruit and yogurt parfaits, or sandwiches depending on the school.

Q: How can I apply for free or reduced-price lunch?

A: Applications are available online via the school district’s website and at each school’s main office. Eligibility is determined based on family income.

Contact Information

Dothan City Schools Nutrition Services

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (334) 793-1640

Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

For questions regarding menus, dietary accommodations, or meal payments, please reach out to the Nutrition Services department. The staff is dedicated to ensuring all students receive safe, nutritious meals.