Maui High Lunch Menu

Overview of the Lunch Program

The lunch program at Maui High is designed to meet the nutritional needs of teenagers while celebrating the unique culture of Maui. Emphasis is placed on fresh produce, lean proteins, and whole grains.

The menu rotates on a weekly basis, ensuring variety and excitement for students throughout the school year.

Key goals of the Maui High Lunch Program include:

• Providing balanced meals that follow USDA nutrition guidelines.
• Incorporating local Hawaiian ingredients and traditional dishes.
• Offering vegetarian, vegan, and allergen-friendly options.
• Encouraging healthy eating habits with appealing flavors and presentation.

“Eating well is a foundational part of learning well. At Maui High, we believe that every student deserves access to meals that fuel both body and mind.” – Maui High Food Services Coordinator

Weekly Lunch Menu Breakdown

The lunch menu is organized by days of the week, featuring a main entrée, side dishes, fruits, vegetables, and a beverage. The school kitchen strives to maintain a balance between traditional American lunches and local Hawaiian favorites.

Day	Main Entrée	Sides	Fruit & Vegetables	Beverage
Monday	Kalua Pork Sandwich	Sweet Potato Fries, Coleslaw	Pineapple Chunks, Mixed Greens Salad	100% Fruit Juice
Tuesday	Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Bowl	Steamed Rice, Macaroni Salad	Fresh Mango, Steamed Broccoli	Low-fat Milk
Wednesday	Vegetarian Loco Moco	Brown Rice, Sautéed Vegetables	Orange Slices, Cucumber Salad	Water
Thursday	Fish Tacos with Pineapple Salsa	Black Beans, Corn on the Cob	Papaya Cubes, Garden Salad	100% Fruit Juice
Friday	Beef Teriyaki Stir Fry	White Rice, Mixed Vegetables	Banana, Carrot Sticks	Low-fat Milk

Monday: Kalua Pork Sandwich

This traditional Hawaiian dish features slow-cooked pork seasoned with liquid smoke to mimic the authentic kalua style. Served on a freshly baked bun, it offers a savory and satisfying main course.

Sweet potato fries add a touch of natural sweetness and a crispy texture.

Fresh pineapple chunks provide a tropical burst of flavor while mixed greens salad adds a healthy, crunchy contrast. The 100% fruit juice complements the meal with natural sweetness and hydration.

Tuesday: Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Bowl

Grilled chicken marinated in homemade teriyaki sauce is served atop steamed rice, a staple of Hawaiian cuisine. The macaroni salad on the side is reminiscent of the plate lunches commonly found across the islands, blending creamy mayo and tender pasta.

Fresh mango offers a juicy, vitamin-rich fruit option, while steamed broccoli provides fiber and essential nutrients. The low-fat milk helps support bone health with calcium and vitamin D.

Wednesday: Vegetarian Loco Moco

The vegetarian take on the classic loco moco replaces the traditional hamburger patty with a plant-based protein. Brown rice adds whole grains and fiber, while sautéed vegetables bring color and nutrients.

Orange slices deliver a vitamin C boost, and cucumber salad adds a refreshing, hydrating element. Water is the beverage of choice to keep students hydrated without added sugars.

Thursday: Fish Tacos with Pineapple Salsa

On Thursdays, the menu highlights fresh local fish prepared in soft tacos topped with pineapple salsa, creating a balance of savory and sweet flavors. Black beans and corn on the cob add protein and fiber, rounding out the meal.

Papaya cubes serve as a tropical dessert, rich in digestive enzymes and antioxidants. A crisp garden salad adds vitamins and minerals, and 100% fruit juice ensures hydration.

Friday: Beef Teriyaki Stir Fry

This dish features tender beef stir-fried with a medley of vegetables in teriyaki sauce, served over white rice. The simplicity and flavor of this dish make it a Friday favorite.

Banana and carrot sticks are included for easy snacking and added nutrition.

Low-fat milk is offered to provide additional protein and calcium to finish the meal.

Nutritional Highlights

The Maui High lunch menu is crafted with attention to balanced nutrition. Each meal includes a source of protein, complex carbohydrates, and a variety of fruits and vegetables.

This ensures students receive the energy and nutrients needed to stay focused and active throughout the school day.

Some key nutritional aspects include:

• Whole grains: Brown rice and whole grain buns are used regularly to increase fiber intake.
• Lean proteins: Options like grilled chicken, fish, and plant-based proteins provide essential amino acids without excessive fat.
• Fresh fruits and vegetables: Seasonal and local produce is featured to maximize vitamin and mineral content.
• Low-fat dairy: Milk and low-fat options support bone health and provide vitamin D.
• Reduced added sugars and sodium: Recipes are developed to limit excess sugars and salt while maintaining flavor.

“We are committed to nourishing our students with wholesome meals that taste great and reflect our island’s culture.” – Maui High Nutritionist

Special Dietary Accommodations

Maui High understands the diversity of dietary needs present in its student body. The lunch program offers several accommodations to ensure all students can enjoy a safe and satisfying meal.

Vegetarian and vegan options: The menu regularly features plant-based meals such as the vegetarian loco moco and sides that are free from animal products.

Allergen-friendly choices: The program identifies common allergens such as nuts, gluten, and dairy, and provides alternatives or clear labeling to protect students with allergies.

Gluten-free options: While traditional plate lunches may include bread or soy sauce containing gluten, Maui High offers gluten-free rice bowls and salads upon request.

Parents and students are encouraged to contact the Food Services Coordinator to discuss specific dietary restrictions or preferences. The school strives to accommodate as many needs as possible within budget and resource constraints.

Locally Sourced Ingredients and Sustainability

Maui High is proud to partner with local farmers and suppliers to bring fresh, island-grown ingredients to the lunch tables. This not only supports the local economy but also ensures that produce is fresh, flavorful, and environmentally sustainable.

Some examples of local ingredients regularly used include:

• Pineapples from Maui Gold farms
• Fresh fish caught in Hawaiian waters
• Taro and sweet potatoes grown by island farmers
• Locally grown greens and vegetables

The school also implements waste reduction initiatives by composting food scraps and recycling packaging. Efforts are made to minimize single-use plastics and encourage reusable containers.

“Eating local helps us connect with our community and preserve the natural resources that make Maui so special.” – Maui High Sustainability Coordinator

Tips for Students and Parents

To make the most of the Maui High lunch program, here are some helpful tips:

• Review the weekly menu posted online or on campus to plan your meals.
• Encourage your child to try new foods, especially local dishes that celebrate Hawaiian culture.
• Inform the school of any dietary restrictions or allergies well in advance.
• Pack additional snacks if your child has a higher appetite or specific nutritional needs.
• Stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day, especially in Maui’s warm climate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question	Answer
Can students bring their own lunch?	Yes, students are welcome to bring lunch from home. However, the school promotes participation in the lunch program for balanced nutrition.
Are there vegetarian meals every day?	Vegetarian options are available multiple days per week, and special requests can be made for additional accommodations.
Is breakfast offered at Maui High?	Yes, a breakfast program is available with a variety of healthy options to start the day.
How can I find out if a meal contains allergens?	Allergen information is provided on menu postings, and the Food Services team can answer specific questions.

Conclusion

The Maui High lunch menu is more than just a source of food; it is a reflection of the island’s vibrant culture, commitment to health, and community values. By offering a diverse, nutritious, and delicious array of meals, Maui High supports its students in achieving academic success and lifelong wellness.

Whether it’s the savory kalua pork, the fresh fish tacos, or the hearty vegetarian options, the lunch program at Maui High invites everyone to enjoy the flavors of Hawaii in a nourishing way every day.