The Herriman Elementary School lunch program is dedicated to providing nutritious, balanced meals that support the health and academic performance of all students. The menu is thoughtfully designed to accommodate a wide variety of tastes and dietary needs, ensuring that every child receives a wholesome, satisfying lunch each day.
Understanding the importance of good nutrition during formative years, Herriman Elementary emphasizes fresh ingredients, diverse food options, and adherence to federal nutrition standards. This approach helps foster healthy eating habits that children can carry throughout their lives.
“A well-balanced lunch is not just fuel for the body—it’s nourishment for the mind and soul of every child.”
Overview of the Lunch Program
The school lunch program operates Monday through Friday during the academic year, typically from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Meals are prepared on-site or delivered fresh daily, ensuring quality and safety.
Herriman Elementary offers a standard menu as well as options for students with food allergies, intolerances, and special dietary needs such as vegetarian or gluten-free diets. The staff is trained to handle these requirements with care and professionalism.
Key features of the lunch program include:
- Balanced meals meeting USDA guidelines
- Fresh fruits and vegetables daily
- Whole grain options for breads and sides
- Low-fat or fat-free dairy products
- Reduced sodium and sugar content
Weekly Lunch Menu Sample
The following table provides a sample of the weekly lunch menu typically offered at Herriman Elementary. Menus rotate regularly to provide variety and seasonal offerings.
| Day | Main Entrée | Side Dishes | Fruit | Beverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | Grilled Chicken Sandwich | Steamed Broccoli, Baked Sweet Potato Fries | Fresh Apple Slices | 1% Milk or Water |
| Tuesday | Cheese Quesadilla | Mexican Rice, Black Beans | Mixed Fruit Cup | Fat-Free Chocolate Milk or Water |
| Wednesday | Spaghetti with Meat Sauce | Garden Salad, Garlic Bread | Fresh Orange | 1% Milk or Water |
| Thursday | Turkey and Cheese Wrap | Carrot Sticks, Baked Chips | Banana | Fat-Free Chocolate Milk or Water |
| Friday | Homemade Cheese Pizza | Caesar Salad | Grapes | 1% Milk or Water |
Notes on the Menu
The menu is designed to incorporate a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fresh produce daily. Students are encouraged to try new fruits and vegetables as part of their meals.
The beverages offered are always milk or water to promote hydration and bone health.
For students with allergies or dietary restrictions, alternative entrées and sides are available upon request. Parents should notify the school nurse or lunch coordinator to ensure appropriate accommodations.
Nutrition and Dietary Guidelines
Herriman Elementary follows the federal guidelines established by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) for the National School Lunch Program. These guidelines ensure that meals provide adequate calories and nutrients to support children’s growth and development.
Each meal includes components from the five major food groups: fruits, vegetables, grains, protein, and dairy. The program emphasizes whole grains and lean protein sources while limiting saturated fats, sodium, and added sugars.
“Healthy children learn better. That’s why nutrition is a cornerstone of academic success at Herriman Elementary.”
Accommodations for Special Diets
The school is committed to inclusivity and offers a variety of options for students with specific dietary needs. This includes vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, lactose-free, and allergy-friendly meals.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to communicate any dietary restrictions to the school cafeteria manager so that meals can be tailored appropriately. The program works closely with registered dietitians to ensure safety and nutritional adequacy.
How to Access the Lunch Menu
The menu is published monthly on the Herriman Elementary School website and is also distributed in print to students at the beginning of each month. This allows families to plan lunches accordingly.
Menus can also be accessed through the school’s parent portal, where updates and nutritional information are provided. The school encourages feedback from parents and students to continually improve the lunch offerings.
Online Resources and Tools
- Monthly Menu PDF: Downloadable and printable for convenience.
- Nutrition Facts: Detailed breakdown of calories, fat, protein, and other nutrients for each menu item.
- Allergy Information: Lists common allergens present in each meal.
- Meal Payment Portal: Allows parents to prepay for lunches and monitor balances.
Meal Pricing and Payment Options
Herriman Elementary offers affordable lunch prices with options for free and reduced-price meals for qualifying families. The pricing structure is reviewed annually to maintain accessibility for all students.
| Meal Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Full-Pay Student Lunch | $3.00 |
| Reduced-Price Lunch | $0.40 |
| Free Lunch | $0.00 |
| Adult Lunch | $4.00 |
Payments can be made online through the school’s secure payment portal or directly in the cafeteria using cash or check. Prepayment is encouraged to speed up lunch lines and reduce lost funds.
Benefits of Healthy School Lunches
Balanced school lunches play a crucial role in student well-being. They provide the energy needed for concentration, participation, and overall growth.
Herriman Elementary’s lunch program is designed with these benefits in mind, aiming to create a foundation for lifelong healthy habits.
Research shows students who eat nutritious lunches perform better academically and have fewer behavioral issues. The social environment of the lunchroom also fosters friendships and community engagement among students.
“Good nutrition is not an expense; it’s an investment in our children’s future.”
Parental Involvement and Feedback
Herriman Elementary values the partnership with families in promoting healthy eating. Parents are invited to participate in periodic surveys about the lunch program and are encouraged to attend school nutrition meetings.
Suggestions for menu items, special events, and improvement ideas are welcomed. The school believes that collaborative efforts yield the best outcomes for student nutrition.
Tips for Parents to Support Healthy Eating
- Discuss the menu with your child to encourage trying new foods.
- Pack complementary snacks or drinks if desired, keeping nutrition in mind.
- Model healthy eating habits at home to reinforce positive choices.
- Communicate any concerns or allergies promptly to school staff.
Conclusion
The Herriman Elementary lunch menu represents a comprehensive commitment to student health, variety, and taste. Through careful planning and community engagement, the program strives to make lunchtime a pleasant, nourishing experience for every child.
By fostering healthy eating habits early, the school supports academic success and overall well-being. Families are encouraged to stay informed and involved in the lunch program to help their children thrive.
For the latest menus, nutritional information, and payment options, visit the Herriman Elementary School website or contact the school cafeteria directly.
