Enid Public Schools is committed to providing nutritious, delicious, and balanced meals for students throughout the academic year. The lunch menu is thoughtfully designed to meet dietary guidelines while catering to varied tastes and preferences.
Each school day offers a diverse selection of entrees, fruits, vegetables, and beverages. The menu rotates regularly to include seasonal ingredients and special thematic meals, ensuring students enjoy fresh, wholesome options.
Overview of the Lunch Program
The lunch program aims to support students’ health and well-being by providing meals that are not only tasty but also nutritionally balanced. Enid Public Schools follows federal and state nutrition standards, including the USDA’s guidelines for school meals.
Meals served include components from the five food groups: fruits, vegetables, grains, protein foods, and dairy. This helps students develop healthy eating habits that can last a lifetime.
“Good nutrition is essential for academic success and overall health. Our school lunch program strives to fuel students’ minds and bodies every day.” – Enid Public Schools Nutrition Services
Key Features of the Lunch Program:
- Variety of meal options including vegetarian and allergen-friendly choices
- Fresh fruits and vegetables daily
- Whole grain-rich breads and cereals
- Low-fat and fat-free milk options
- Periodic themed and cultural meal days
Weekly Lunch Menu Sample
Below is a sample weekly lunch menu that illustrates the type of meals offered across Enid Public Schools. Menus are subject to change based on availability of ingredients and seasonal considerations.
| Day | Main Entrée | Vegetable Side | Fruit | Beverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | Grilled Chicken Sandwich | Steamed Broccoli | Fresh Apple Slices | Low-Fat Milk |
| Tuesday | Spaghetti with Meat Sauce | Garden Salad with Dressing | Orange Wedges | Fat-Free Chocolate Milk |
| Wednesday | Beef Tacos with Cheese | Refried Beans | Mixed Berries | Low-Fat Milk |
| Thursday | Homestyle Meatloaf | Mashed Potatoes with Gravy | Peach Slices | Fat-Free Strawberry Milk |
| Friday | Cheese Pizza | Carrot Sticks with Ranch | Grapes | Low-Fat Milk |
This sample menu demonstrates a balance of protein, vegetables, fruits, grains, and dairy. The variety ensures that students have access to different flavors and textures every day.
Nutrition and Dietary Considerations
Enid Public Schools recognizes the importance of accommodating diverse dietary needs. The lunch program incorporates options for students with allergies, vegetarian preferences, and other special dietary requirements.
Some important nutrition policies include:
- Limiting sodium and added sugars in meals
- Providing allergen-free alternatives for common allergens such as peanuts, tree nuts, dairy, and gluten
- Offering vegetarian and plant-based protein options regularly
- Encouraging the consumption of whole grains
Nutrition staff work closely with parents and healthcare providers to ensure that individual student needs are met safely and effectively. This collaboration helps create an inclusive dining environment for all students.
How to Access the Lunch Menu
The lunch menu is available online for parents, students, and staff to view. It is updated monthly and includes detailed descriptions of meals, nutritional information, and allergen notices.
Ways to view the lunch menu:
- Visit the Enid Public Schools official website and navigate to the Nutrition Services section
- Download the monthly PDF menu available on the site
- Use the district’s mobile app which provides easy access to daily menus and nutritional details
Parents are encouraged to review the menus with their children to help them make informed food choices at school.
Meal Prices and Payment Options
Enid Public Schools offers affordable meal prices to ensure all students have access to healthy lunches. Additionally, the district participates in the USDA’s National School Lunch Program, offering free or reduced-price meals for qualifying families.
| Meal Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Full-Pay Student Lunch | $2.75 |
| Reduced-Price Student Lunch | $0.40 |
| Adult Lunch | $3.75 |
Payment methods accepted:
- Online prepayment via the district’s secure payment portal
- Cash or check payments at school cafeterias
- Meal account management through the district app
Parents can set up automated payments or receive low-balance alerts to ensure students always have access to meals without interruption.
Special Events and Themed Meal Days
Throughout the school year, Enid Public Schools celebrates nutrition and culture with special meal events. These themed days introduce students to new cuisines and promote awareness of healthy eating habits.
Examples of past themed meal days include:
- “Taste of Italy” featuring different pasta dishes and Italian desserts
- “Southwestern Fiesta” with tacos, beans, and salsa
- “Farm to Table” promoting locally sourced produce and meats
- “Breakfast for Lunch” offering pancakes, eggs, and fruit
“Special meal days are a great way to engage students and expand their palates. We see enthusiasm and curiosity grow with every new dish.” – Nutrition Services Team
These events also provide educational opportunities about nutrition, agriculture, and the importance of balanced meals.
Student Feedback and Involvement
Enid Public Schools values student input in shaping the lunch menu. Regular surveys and taste tests are conducted to gather opinions and preferences from the student body.
Students have the opportunity to suggest new menu items, vote on favorite dishes, and participate in nutrition workshops. This involvement helps ensure the menu remains engaging and relevant to student tastes.
Some recent menu additions based on student feedback include:
- More vegetarian and vegan entrées
- Expanded fruit variety such as mangoes and kiwi
- Healthier snack options including hummus and veggie sticks
- Whole wheat and multigrain bread choices
By involving students, the district fosters a sense of ownership and pride in the lunch program.
Contact Information and Support
For questions, comments, or special dietary requests, families can contact the Enid Public Schools Nutrition Services department directly.
| Department | Nutrition Services |
|---|---|
| Phone | (580) 366-5366 |
| [email protected] | |
| Address | Enid Public Schools Administration Building 500 South Independence Enid, OK 73701 |
Staff are available to assist with meal applications, menu details, and accommodating special nutrition needs. Families are encouraged to reach out for support to ensure their children have a positive meal experience.
Conclusion
The Enid Public Schools lunch menu is more than just a daily meal plan; it is a comprehensive program designed to promote health, learning, and community. Through carefully planned menus, nutritional education, and student involvement, the district supports the holistic development of every child.
Providing balanced, tasty, and inclusive meals is a cornerstone of Enid Public Schools’ commitment to student success.
Families are encouraged to explore the menu options, participate in feedback opportunities, and collaborate with the Nutrition Services team to enhance the dining experience for all students.
