The USD 373 school district is committed to providing students with nutritious, balanced, and appealing lunch options throughout the academic year. Understanding the importance of a well-rounded meal, the district carefully plans menus that meet federal nutrition guidelines while catering to diverse tastes and dietary needs.
Each week, the lunch menu is thoughtfully designed to offer a variety of main courses, fruits, vegetables, and beverages, ensuring students receive the energy and nutrients necessary for a productive school day.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to review the menu regularly to stay informed about their children’s meal options.
Importance of a Balanced School Lunch
School lunches play a critical role in students’ health and academic performance. Proper nutrition helps improve concentration, stamina, and overall well-being.
The USDA sets strict nutrition standards for school meals, and USD 373 adheres strictly to these standards.
Offering a balanced meal that includes protein, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables also helps establish healthy eating habits that can last a lifetime. By providing tasty and nutritious meals, USD 373 aims to support every student’s growth and learning.
“Nutrition is not just about feeding the body; it’s about fueling the mind and fostering a foundation for lifelong health.” – USD 373 Nutrition Services
Weekly Lunch Menu Overview
The USD 373 lunch menu rotates weekly to offer variety and accommodate seasonal ingredients. Below is a sample menu for one week, illustrating the diversity and care taken in meal planning.
| Day | Main Entrée | Sides | Fruit | Vegetable | Beverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | Grilled Chicken Sandwich | Sweet Potato Fries | Apple Slices | Steamed Broccoli | Fat-Free Milk |
| Tuesday | Beef Taco Salad | Refried Beans | Orange Wedges | Fresh Tomato Salsa | Fat-Free Chocolate Milk |
| Wednesday | Whole Grain Spaghetti with Meat Sauce | Garlic Breadstick | Grapes | Garden Salad | Fat-Free Milk |
| Thursday | Turkey and Cheese Wrap | Carrot Sticks | Banana | Cucumber Slices | Fat-Free Milk |
| Friday | Cheese Pizza | Mixed Vegetables | Peach Cup | Caesar Salad | Fat-Free Chocolate Milk |
Nutritional Guidelines and Standards
USD 373 follows the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) guidelines, which emphasize calorie control, reduced sodium, and limits on saturated fat. These standards help ensure that meals contribute to healthy growth without excess calories or unhealthy components.
The district focuses on incorporating:
- Whole grains: At least half of the grains served are whole grain-rich to promote fiber intake.
- Fruits and vegetables: Daily servings from multiple vegetable subgroups and fresh or canned fruits are included.
- Lean proteins: Options include poultry, lean beef, beans, and plant-based proteins.
- Dairy: Fat-free or low-fat milk is provided to support bone health.
Menus are reviewed regularly by a registered dietitian to ensure compliance and nutritional balance.
Special Dietary Accommodations
USD 373 recognizes that students have diverse dietary needs and restrictions. The district is committed to providing accommodations for students with allergies, intolerances, or special diet requirements.
Parents should notify the school nurse and nutrition services if their child requires a modified diet due to medical conditions like:
- Food allergies (e.g., nuts, dairy, gluten)
- Lactose intolerance
- Religious or cultural dietary restrictions
- Vegetarian or vegan preferences
Upon request, the lunch menu can be adjusted to provide safe and appropriate meals while maintaining nutritional adequacy.
Sample Monthly Lunch Menu Calendar
To give a broader perspective, the following table shows a sample two-week menu calendar. This helps students and families plan ahead and encourages participation in the school lunch program.
| Date | Entrée | Side Items | Fruit | Vegetable |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Monday | BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich | Coleslaw, Baked Beans | Mixed Fruit Cup | Steamed Green Beans |
| 1st Tuesday | Chicken Nuggets | Mashed Potatoes, Gravy | Apple Slices | Steamed Corn |
| 1st Wednesday | Vegetable Stir Fry with Brown Rice | Spring Roll | Pineapple Chunks | Broccoli Florets |
| 1st Thursday | Beef and Cheese Quesadilla | Refried Beans | Orange Wedges | Salsa |
| 1st Friday | Cheese Pizza | Caesar Salad | Grapes | Carrot Sticks |
| 2nd Monday | Turkey Meatball Sub | Sweet Potato Fries | Banana | Steamed Peas |
| 2nd Tuesday | Beef Chili | Crackers | Peach Cup | Garden Salad |
| 2nd Wednesday | Whole Wheat Pasta with Marinara | Garlic Breadstick | Apple Slices | Steamed Zucchini |
| 2nd Thursday | Grilled Cheese Sandwich | Tomato Soup | Mixed Berries | Celery Sticks |
| 2nd Friday | Fish Sticks | Rice Pilaf | Orange Wedges | Steamed Carrots |
How to Access the USD 373 Lunch Menu
The lunch menu is published monthly and is accessible via multiple channels to ensure families can always stay informed. Methods include:
- USD 373 Official Website: The most current menu is updated online and downloadable as a PDF.
- School Newsletters: Monthly print or email newsletters feature the menu along with nutrition tips.
- Mobile Apps: Some schools utilize apps that notify parents when menus are updated and allow pre-ordering.
- Posted in Cafeterias: Menus are displayed in school cafeterias for easy reference.
Families are encouraged to contact the nutrition services department with questions or feedback regarding the menu options.
Benefits of Participating in the School Lunch Program
Participating in USD 373’s school lunch program offers numerous advantages for students and families. Beyond nutrition, the program promotes social interaction and supports academic success.
- Convenience: Students have access to freshly prepared meals without the need to pack lunches daily.
- Cost-Effective: The program offers free or reduced-price meals to qualifying families, making nutritious food accessible to all.
- Variety: Rotating menus keep meals interesting and introduce children to new foods and flavors.
- Health Education: The program often integrates lessons on healthy eating habits.
“The school lunch program is a cornerstone of student wellness, supporting both body and mind during critical learning years.” – USD 373 Wellness Coordinator
Tips for Parents on Supporting Healthy Eating Habits
Parents and caregivers play a vital role in encouraging healthy eating both at home and in school. Here are some tips to support children’s nutrition:
- Discuss the Menu: Review the weekly menu with your child to build excitement and familiarity with the meals served.
- Encourage Trying New Foods: Support your child in experimenting with fruits or vegetables they may not have tried before.
- Pack Balanced Lunches (if applicable): If your child brings lunch, include a variety of food groups similar to the school menu.
- Stay Hydrated: Encourage drinking water throughout the day along with the meals.
By fostering positive attitudes about school meals, parents help create a supportive environment for healthy growth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Are meals free for all students? | Meals are free for students who qualify under the federal free or reduced-price lunch program. Others pay a standard fee. |
| Can students with allergies eat school lunch? | Yes, with proper documentation and accommodations, safe meals can be provided to students with allergies. |
| Is the menu the same every year? | The menu rotates and updates each year to incorporate seasonal foods and student preferences. |
| How can I get involved in menu planning? | Parents can contact the nutrition services department to join advisory committees or provide feedback. |
| Are vegetarian options available? | Yes, vegetarian meals are offered regularly and can be requested as needed. |
Contact Information for USD 373 Nutrition Services
If you have questions, concerns, or suggestions about the lunch menu, please reach out to the USD 373 Nutrition Services team. They are available to assist families and ensure every child has access to healthy meals.
Phone: (555) 123-4567
Email: [email protected]
Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Conclusion
The USD 373 lunch menu is more than just a list of meals — it represents the district’s dedication to student health, wellness, and academic success. By providing nutritious and delicious food options, USD 373 aims to nourish both the body and mind of every student.
Families are encouraged to review the menu regularly, communicate dietary needs, and support their children in making healthy food choices. Together, the school and home environment can foster lifelong habits of balanced eating and wellbeing.
