The lunch menu at Rogers Elementary is thoughtfully designed to provide students with nutritious,
balanced meals that support their growth, learning, and overall well-being. Each week, the menu offers
a variety of delicious options to accommodate different tastes and dietary needs.
With an emphasis on fresh ingredients, whole grains, and ample fruits and vegetables, the Rogers Elementary
lunch program ensures that children receive meals that fuel their bodies and minds throughout the school day.
This article details the weekly menu offerings, nutritional guidelines, special meal accommodations,
and helpful tips for parents and students.
Weekly Lunch Menu Overview
The lunch menu rotates on a four-week cycle to bring variety and excitement to mealtime. Each day includes an entree, a side dish or two, fruit or vegetable options, and milk.
Menus are developed in compliance with USDA nutrition standards, ensuring adequate servings
of protein, grains, fruits, and vegetables.
| Day | Main Entree | Side Dishes | Fruit / Vegetable | Milk |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | Grilled Cheese Sandwich | Tomato Soup, Carrot Sticks | Fresh Apple Slices | 1% White or Chocolate |
| Tuesday | Chicken Tacos | Mexican Rice, Black Beans | Mixed Fruit Cup | 1% White or Chocolate |
| Wednesday | Spaghetti with Meat Sauce | Steamed Broccoli, Garlic Bread | Fresh Orange | 1% White or Chocolate |
| Thursday | Cheese Pizza | Garden Salad with Dressing | Strawberries | 1% White or Chocolate |
| Friday | Fish Sticks | Sweet Potato Fries, Coleslaw | Banana | 1% White or Chocolate |
Each meal is balanced to provide roughly 600-700 calories, meeting the nutritional needs of elementary school children
based on age and activity level. The menu also includes vegetarian and allergen-friendly choices throughout the cycle.
Nutrition and Dietary Guidelines
Rogers Elementary adheres strictly to the National School Lunch Program guidelines. These standards
ensure all meals provide adequate servings of essential nutrients, including protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
“Our goal is to serve meals that not only taste great but also promote healthy habits that last a lifetime.”
– Rogers Elementary Food Services Director
The lunch program limits sodium, saturated fats, and added sugars while emphasizing whole grains and fresh produce. Students are encouraged to choose a variety of fruits and vegetables daily, helping them develop a palate for
wholesome foods early on.
| Nutrient | Daily Recommended Amount | Menu Target per Meal |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 1800 – 2200 kcal (ages 6-12) | 600 – 700 kcal |
| Protein | 19 – 34 grams | 10 – 15 grams |
| Fruits & Vegetables | 1½ – 2 cups | ¾ – 1 cup |
| Grains (at least half whole grain) | 5 – 7 ounces | 2 – 3 ounces |
| Sodium | ≤2300 mg | ≤640 mg |
Special Dietary Accommodations
Rogers Elementary recognizes that students have diverse dietary needs due to allergies, religious restrictions,
or personal preferences. The cafeteria staff works closely with families to provide safe and suitable meal options.
Parents must notify the school nurse or food services department in writing about any food allergies or dietary restrictions. Upon receiving a request, the school creates an individualized meal plan to ensure the child receives nutritious alternatives.
- Allergies: The menu offers nut-free, gluten-free, and dairy-free options whenever possible.
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Plant-based entrees are included regularly, such as bean burritos or vegetable stir-fry.
- Religious Restrictions: Meals can be adapted to comply with kosher, halal, or other religious dietary laws.
“No child should have to miss a meal because of dietary needs. We are committed to inclusivity and safety.”
– Rogers Elementary Food Services Coordinator
Sample Menu for Special Dietary Needs
| Day | Entrée | Sides | Fruit / Vegetable | Milk Alternative |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | Veggie Wrap with Hummus | Sweet Potato Chips, Cucumber Slices | Grapes | Soy or Almond Milk |
| Tuesday | Black Bean Quesadilla (Gluten-Free) | Brown Rice, Corn Salsa | Pineapple Chunks | Oat Milk |
| Wednesday | Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables | Steamed Green Beans | Apple Slices | Rice Milk |
| Thursday | Tofu Stir Fry with Brown Rice | Edamame Pods | Mandarin Oranges | Soy Milk |
| Friday | Vegan Mac & Cheese | Steamed Broccoli | Fresh Strawberries | Almond Milk |
How to Access the Lunch Menu
The weekly lunch menu is available on the Rogers Elementary website and is updated monthly. Parents and students can download a PDF version or view the interactive calendar to plan ahead.
Additionally, paper copies are sent home with students at the beginning of each month. This helps families coordinate lunches, especially for children bringing snacks or packed meals.
School staff encourage parents to review the menu regularly and communicate any concerns or special requests. This open communication helps maintain a high-quality lunch program that meets community needs.
Benefits of the Rogers Elementary Lunch Program
Providing balanced meals at school has several proven benefits for children’s health, behavior, and academic success. Rogers Elementary aims to harness these advantages through its comprehensive lunch offerings.
- Improved Concentration: Nutritious meals stabilize blood sugar and support focus during lessons.
- Better Academic Performance: Studies link healthy eating with higher test scores and cognitive skills.
- Social Interaction: Lunchtime fosters friendships and social development in a relaxed setting.
- Healthy Habits: Exposure to fruits, vegetables, and whole grains encourages lifelong good nutrition.
- Food Security: The program ensures all students have access to at least one healthy meal daily.
“Our lunch program is not just about feeding students; it’s about nourishing potential.”
– Principal of Rogers Elementary
Tips for Parents and Guardians
To support the success of the lunch program and your child’s nutrition, consider the following tips:
- Discuss Menu Choices: Talk with your child about the menu options and encourage them to try new foods.
- Pack Balanced Snacks: If your child brings snacks, include fruits, vegetables, or whole grains to complement school lunches.
- Notify the School: Inform staff promptly about any changes in allergies or dietary needs.
- Encourage Hydration: Remind your child to drink water throughout the day in addition to milk provided at lunch.
- Get Involved: Volunteer for school nutrition committees or taste tests to contribute to menu planning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can my child choose between 1% white milk and chocolate milk?
Yes. Students may select either 1% white milk or chocolate milk with their lunch each day.
Both options meet calcium and vitamin D requirements.
Q: How are food allergies managed during lunch?
Rogers Elementary requires parents to submit allergy information in writing. The kitchen staff prepares allergen-free meals and takes precautions to avoid cross-contact.
Q: Is the lunch menu free or paid?
Most students pay for lunch unless they qualify for free or reduced-price meals through the National School Lunch Program. Applications are available at the school office.
Q: Are there vegetarian options available every day?
Vegetarian options are offered regularly, typically at least two days per week, including meatless entrees and sides rich in protein.
Q: How can I provide feedback about the lunch menu?
Parents can contact the Food Services Director via email or phone. The school also holds periodic surveys and taste-testing events to gather input.
Conclusion
The Rogers Elementary lunch menu reflects a commitment to providing wholesome, tasty, and accessible meals for all students. By balancing nutrition with variety and inclusiveness, the program plays a vital role in supporting children’s health and educational success.
Families are encouraged to stay informed about menu offerings, communicate dietary needs, and engage with the school’s nutrition initiatives. Together, we can ensure every child enjoys healthy, satisfying meals that energize their school day.
For the latest menu updates and more information, please visit the Rogers Elementary official website or contact the Food Services Department directly.
