The PHS Lunch Menu is thoughtfully designed to provide students with nutritious, delicious, and balanced meals every school day. Our goal is to ensure that the meals support healthy growth and learning, while catering to a variety of dietary preferences and needs.
Each week, the menu offers a diverse range of options, including vegetarian dishes, gluten-free choices, and fresh fruits and vegetables. We emphasize fresh ingredients, homemade recipes, and seasonal produce to promote wellness and sustainability.
Understanding the importance of a good lunch, PHS works closely with nutritionists and food service professionals to create meals that excite taste buds and fuel the mind.
Weekly Lunch Menu Breakdown
| Day | Main Entrée | Side Options | Dessert | Beverages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | Grilled Chicken Sandwich with lettuce and tomato | Steamed Broccoli, Sweet Potato Fries | Fresh Apple Slices | Low-fat Milk, Water |
| Tuesday | Vegetarian Lasagna with marinara sauce | Garden Salad, Garlic Breadstick | Yogurt Parfait | 100% Fruit Juice, Water |
| Wednesday | Beef Tacos with lettuce, cheese, and salsa | Mexican Rice, Black Beans | Chilled Pineapple | Low-fat Milk, Water |
| Thursday | Cheese Pizza with whole wheat crust | Caesar Salad, Baby Carrots | Orange Slices | 100% Fruit Juice, Water |
| Friday | Fish Sticks with tartar sauce | Coleslaw, Baked Potato Wedges | Chilled Peaches | Low-fat Milk, Water |
Nutrition Highlights
Balanced Macronutrients: Each meal is designed to include a healthy balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. This balance helps students sustain energy throughout the afternoon and supports cognitive function.
Fresh Vegetables and Fruits: The menu incorporates fresh produce daily, increasing vitamin and mineral intake. Seasonal fruits provide natural sweetness while boosting antioxidant levels.
Whole Grains: Whenever possible, whole grain options are featured to provide fiber and support digestive health. For example, whole wheat pizza crusts and brown rice are common staples.
Allergen Awareness: The kitchen staff is trained to handle allergen-friendly meal preparation, ensuring students with food allergies have safe and satisfying options.
“A nutritious lunch is the foundation for a productive school day. At PHS, we believe every student deserves meals that are not only tasty but also nourishing.”
— PHS Food Services Director
Special Dietary Accommodations
PHS is committed to inclusivity and understands that students have diverse dietary needs. The lunch program offers several accommodations to ensure no student feels left out.
- Vegetarian and Vegan Options: At least one plant-based entrée is served daily, featuring legumes, tofu, or vegetable-based proteins.
- Gluten-Free Choices: Gluten-free breads, pastas, and snacks are available upon request to support students with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
- Allergy-Safe Meals: Nut-free and dairy-free alternatives are provided, with clear labeling and cross-contamination protocols in place.
- Halal and Kosher Options: When requested in advance, culturally appropriate meals can be arranged.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to inform the school nurse or the food services department about any special dietary requirements to ensure proper planning and accommodation.
How to Request Special Meals
Requests for special meals should ideally be submitted at least one week prior to the needed date. Forms are available on the PHS website and at the main office.
Our nutrition staff will coordinate with families to develop a customized meal plan aligned with the student’s preferences and health needs.
Monthly Themed Lunch Days
To make lunchtime exciting and educational, PHS hosts monthly themed lunch days that celebrate global cuisines and special events. These themed days introduce students to new flavors and cultural traditions.
| Month | Theme | Featured Dishes |
|---|---|---|
| September | Italian Heritage Month | Spaghetti Bolognese, Caprese Salad, Gelato |
| October | Harvest Festival | Roasted Turkey, Mashed Potatoes, Pumpkin Pie |
| November | Mexican Fiesta | Chicken Enchiladas, Mexican Street Corn, Churros |
| December | Winter Wonderland | Beef Stew, Roasted Root Vegetables, Hot Cocoa |
| January | Asian Fusion | Teriyaki Chicken, Vegetable Stir-fry, Fortune Cookies |
These themed lunches are accompanied by educational materials about the culture and history behind each cuisine, enriching the students’ understanding and appreciation of diversity.
Environmental Sustainability Initiatives
PHS takes pride in integrating sustainability into its lunch program. By reducing food waste, sourcing local ingredients, and minimizing single-use packaging, the school supports environmental stewardship.
Some key initiatives include:
- Composting: Food scraps and biodegradable waste from the cafeteria are composted to reduce landfill contributions.
- Local Sourcing: Whenever possible, ingredients are purchased from local farmers and producers to reduce carbon footprint and support the local economy.
- Reusable Utensils and Trays: The cafeteria employs durable trays and utensils to minimize disposable waste.
- Water Conservation: Efficient dishwashing systems and water-saving fixtures help conserve resources.
Students are also encouraged to participate in sustainability education programs that highlight the importance of mindful consumption and waste reduction.
Pricing and Payment Options
The PHS lunch program offers affordable pricing to ensure accessibility for all students. A variety of payment options are available to accommodate families’ needs.
| Meal Type | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Full Lunch | $3.50 | Includes entrée, sides, dessert, and beverage |
| Entrée Only | $2.00 | For students who bring their own sides |
| Reduced Price | $0.40 | Available to eligible families (application required) |
| Free Lunch | $0.00 | Available to eligible families (application required) |
Payments can be made online through the school’s portal, via cash or check at the cafeteria, or through pre-paid meal accounts to streamline service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can students bring their own lunch?
Yes, students are welcome to bring lunches from home. However, we encourage balanced meals that include fruits, vegetables, and proteins to support health and energy.
Are snacks available for purchase?
Healthy snack options, such as fresh fruit, yogurt, and granola bars, are available for purchase during lunch periods. Candy and sugary drinks are not sold in the cafeteria.
How does the menu accommodate food allergies?
All allergy information is clearly posted in the cafeteria, and staff are trained to prevent cross-contamination. Parents must notify the school of any allergies so that special meal preparations can be made.
Is there a way to view the menu in advance?
The monthly lunch menu is posted on the PHS website and sent home via email newsletters to help families plan ahead.
What if my child does not like the entrée for the day?
There are always side items and fruit options available for students who prefer to customize their lunch. Additionally, students can opt for a sandwich or salad alternative when available.
Conclusion
The PHS Lunch Menu is more than just a list of meals; it is a commitment to student wellness, cultural enrichment, and environmental responsibility. Through careful planning and community engagement, PHS strives to provide lunches that nurture both body and mind.
By promoting balanced nutrition, accommodating special dietary needs, and fostering sustainability, the school lunch program plays an essential role in the daily lives of students. We invite families and students to explore and enjoy the variety and quality offered each day.
Healthy eating at school lays the foundation for lifelong habits. Together, we can make lunchtime a positive, nourishing experience that supports every PHS student’s success.
