Gleason Lake Elementary School is committed to providing nutritious, delicious, and balanced meals to support the health and well-being of its students. The lunch menu is thoughtfully crafted with the input of nutritionists and educators to ensure a variety of options that cater to different dietary needs and preferences.
Understanding the importance of a healthy lunch in a child’s learning and development, the school offers a rotating menu that changes weekly. This rotation helps keep meals exciting and introduces students to diverse flavors and wholesome ingredients.
“A well-balanced lunch is essential for cognitive function, energy, and overall growth. At Gleason Lake Elementary, we strive to serve meals that fuel our students for academic success and active play.” – School Nutrition Director
Menu Overview
The lunch menu at Gleason Lake Elementary emphasizes fresh produce, whole grains, lean proteins, and dairy products. Each meal is designed to meet the USDA’s nutritional standards for school meals, ensuring students receive adequate portions of fruits, vegetables, protein, grains, and dairy.
Menus are published monthly and include allergen information to help families make informed choices. The school encourages parents to review the menus with their children and discuss meal selections to promote healthy eating habits.
Daily Meal Components
| Meal Component | Description | Typical Items |
|---|---|---|
| Main Entrée | The primary source of protein or grains in the meal | Chicken nuggets, spaghetti, turkey sandwich, cheese pizza |
| Vegetables | Fresh, steamed, or cooked vegetables served daily | Carrots, green beans, corn, broccoli |
| Fruits | Fresh or canned fruits, served as a side or dessert | Apple slices, orange wedges, mixed fruit cup |
| Grains | Whole grain breads, pastas, or rice accompany meals | Whole wheat bread, brown rice, whole grain crackers |
| Dairy | Milk or cheese options for calcium and vitamin D | Low-fat milk, string cheese, yogurt |
Weekly Sample Menu
Below is a sample menu for one week at Gleason Lake Elementary. Actual menus may vary based on seasonal availability, supplier changes, and special events.
| Day | Main Entrée | Vegetable | Fruit | Grain | Dairy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | Grilled Cheese Sandwich | Steamed Carrots | Apple Slices | Whole Wheat Bread | Low-Fat Milk |
| Tuesday | Chicken Nuggets | Green Beans | Orange Wedges | Brown Rice | Low-Fat Milk |
| Wednesday | Spaghetti with Meat Sauce | Steamed Broccoli | Mixed Fruit Cup | Whole Grain Pasta | Low-Fat Milk |
| Thursday | Turkey & Cheese Sandwich | Baby Carrots | Banana | Whole Wheat Bread | Low-Fat Milk |
| Friday | Cheese Pizza | Garden Salad | Apple Slices | Whole Grain Crust | Low-Fat Milk |
Nutrition and Dietary Considerations
Gleason Lake Elementary takes special care to accommodate students with food allergies and dietary restrictions. The lunch program offers alternatives and substitutions to ensure every child can enjoy a safe and satisfying meal.
Common allergens such as peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, wheat, soy, fish, and shellfish are clearly indicated on the menu. The staff is trained to prevent cross-contamination and manage allergy-related emergencies.
“We prioritize safety and inclusivity in our lunch program. Parents should communicate any dietary concerns to our nutrition staff so we can tailor meal options appropriately.” – School Nurse
Special Diet Options
- Vegetarian meals: Available daily with protein options like beans, cheese, or tofu.
- Gluten-free options: Offered upon request with approved substitutes.
- Dairy-free choices: Provided when necessary, including soy or almond milk alternatives.
- Low-sodium meals: Prepared to support students with health-related dietary needs.
Meal Pricing and Payment
Lunch at Gleason Lake Elementary is offered at a reasonable price to ensure accessibility for all families. The school participates in federal and state programs, including free and reduced-price lunch, to assist families who qualify.
| Meal Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Full-Pay Lunch | $2.75 |
| Reduced-Price Lunch | $0.40 |
| Free Lunch | $0.00 |
| Milk Only | $0.50 |
Note: Families are encouraged to apply for free or reduced-price meal programs at the beginning of the school year. Applications are available on the school website or in the school office.
How to Access the Menu
The lunch menu is available online on the Gleason Lake Elementary website for easy access by parents and students. It is updated monthly and includes nutritional details, allergen alerts, and special event menus.
Hard copies of the menu are also distributed in classrooms and can be requested at the school office. The school nutrition department welcomes feedback and suggestions from families to improve the meal offerings continuously.
Encouraging Healthy Eating Habits
Beyond serving nutritious meals, Gleason Lake Elementary actively promotes healthy eating habits through various initiatives. Nutrition education is incorporated into the curriculum to teach children about the benefits of balanced diets.
Events such as “Farm to School” programs introduce students to locally sourced fruits and vegetables, giving them hands-on experiences with fresh foods. The school cafeteria also features colorful posters and interactive displays to make mealtime engaging and informative.
“Educating children about nutrition empowers them to make smart food choices that last a lifetime.” – School Wellness Coordinator
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can students bring their own lunch? | Yes, students may bring lunch from home. However, we encourage balanced meals and ask families to avoid foods with common allergens when possible. |
| Is the lunch menu peanut-free? | While peanuts are not used in most menu items, the cafeteria is not completely peanut-free. Allergy protocols are in place to minimize risks. |
| How can I apply for free or reduced-price lunch? | Applications are available on the school website or at the main office. They must be completed annually. |
| Are vegetarian options available every day? | Yes, vegetarian meals are offered daily, and students can always request these options. |
| Who can I contact for menu questions? | The School Nutrition Director can be reached through the school office or via email listed on the school’s website. |
Conclusion
The Gleason Lake Elementary Lunch Menu reflects the school’s dedication to student health, well-being, and academic performance. By offering diverse, nutritious meals and accommodating a range of dietary needs, the school ensures that every student has access to quality food during the school day.
Families are encouraged to stay engaged with the lunch program, explore the menus together, and communicate any special dietary requirements. Together, the school community can foster healthy eating habits that support lifelong wellness.
For the latest menu updates, nutrition tips, and meal program information, visit the Gleason Lake Elementary School website or contact the nutrition office directly.
