Welcome to the Valley View Elementary Lunch Program! Our mission is to provide nutritious, balanced, and delicious meals to support the growth and health of every student.
The lunch menu is carefully planned to meet dietary guidelines while offering a variety of tasty options that children enjoy.
Eating well during school hours is essential to maintain energy, focus, and overall well-being. Our menu emphasizes fresh ingredients, whole grains, lean proteins, and plenty of fruits and vegetables.
We also accommodate food allergies and dietary restrictions to ensure every child can participate safely.
“Good nutrition is the foundation for academic success and lifelong health.” – Valley View Nutrition Team
Weekly Lunch Menu Overview
Each week, the lunch menu rotates to provide variety and balance. Below is a sample menu for the upcoming week.
All meals come with a choice of milk or juice and a fresh fruit or vegetable side.
| Day | Main Entrée | Side Dishes | Fruit or Vegetable | Beverage Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | Grilled Chicken Sandwich | Baked Sweet Potato Fries | Fresh Apple Slices | Low-fat Milk / 100% Juice |
| Tuesday | Cheese Pizza | Steamed Broccoli | Orange Wedges | Low-fat Milk / 100% Juice |
| Wednesday | Turkey & Cheese Wrap | Carrot Sticks with Hummus | Grapes | Low-fat Milk / 100% Juice |
| Thursday | Spaghetti with Meat Sauce | Green Beans | Mixed Fruit Cup | Low-fat Milk / 100% Juice |
| Friday | Fish Nuggets | Mashed Potatoes | Banana | Low-fat Milk / 100% Juice |
Note: The menu is subject to change based on availability of fresh produce and other factors.
Nutrition Philosophy
Valley View Elementary is committed to promoting healthy eating habits. All menu items are planned following the USDA National School Lunch Program guidelines, ensuring meals are balanced with appropriate portions of protein, grains, vegetables, fruits, and dairy.
We prioritize whole grains, low-fat dairy products, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Processed foods high in sodium, saturated fats, and added sugars are limited to occasional treats.
Our chefs work closely with nutritionists to create menus that are both appealing and healthful.
“Healthy children learn better and have the energy to engage fully in their school day.” – Valley View Wellness Committee
In addition to the main menu, we encourage students to try new fruits and vegetables to develop a diverse palate and lifelong healthy habits.
Special Dietary Accommodations
We recognize that some students have specific dietary needs due to allergies, intolerances, religious practices, or personal preferences. Valley View Elementary offers accommodations to ensure inclusivity and safety during meal times.
Common accommodations include:
- Gluten-free options
- Dairy-free alternatives
- Vegetarian and vegan choices
- Nut-free meals
- Halal and Kosher compliant meals (upon request)
Parents are encouraged to inform the school nurse and cafeteria staff of any dietary restrictions at the beginning of the school year or as they arise. A doctor’s note may be required to implement medical accommodations.
Sample Monthly Lunch Menu
Below is a more detailed sample menu illustrating a full month of lunch options. This sample reflects seasonal ingredients and a balanced approach to nutrition.
| Week | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | Chicken Alfredo Pasta | Veggie Burger | Beef Tacos | Macaroni and Cheese | Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup |
| Week 2 | BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich | Cheese & Spinach Quesadilla | Sloppy Joe | Chicken Stir Fry | Fish Sticks |
| Week 3 | Meatball Sub | Veggie Pasta Salad | Chicken Nuggets | Beef Chili with Cornbread | Pizza Margherita |
| Week 4 | Turkey Meatloaf | Vegetable Fried Rice | Ham & Cheese Wrap | Lasagna | Cheese Ravioli |
Each entrée is accompanied by two sides, a fruit or vegetable, and a beverage choice consistent with USDA guidelines.
Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
Valley View Elementary emphasizes fresh produce daily. Fruits and vegetables are served in season to ensure the best flavor and nutritional value.
Students can expect to see a colorful variety on their trays, including:
- Apples, oranges, bananas, grapes, and berries
- Carrot sticks, celery, cucumber slices, and cherry tomatoes
- Steamed broccoli, green beans, corn, and peas
- Salads with mixed greens and assorted toppings
Offering a wide selection encourages students to try new things and develop healthy eating habits. Our staff also provides fun facts about fruits and vegetables during lunch periods to educate and engage students.
Milk and Beverage Options
Each lunch includes a choice of beverage to accompany the meal. Students can select from:
- Low-fat (1%) milk
- Fat-free chocolate milk (available on select days)
- 100% fruit juice (no added sugars)
- Water is always available as an alternative
Milk provides essential calcium and vitamin D for growing bones, while juice offers a natural source of vitamins. We encourage water consumption to promote hydration without added sugars.
How to Pay for Lunch
Valley View Elementary uses a streamlined lunch payment system to make meal purchasing easy for families. Parents can prepay for lunches online or send cash/check payments to the school office.
Key points about lunch payments:
- Prepayment reduces wait times and eliminates the need for students to carry cash.
- Online accounts can be monitored to track balances and meal purchases.
- Reduced-price and free lunch programs are available for qualifying families.
- For assistance with applications or account setup, contact the school office.
We encourage parents to maintain a positive balance on accounts to ensure their children have access to meals every day.
Lunchroom Behavior and Etiquette
The lunchroom at Valley View Elementary is a space for nourishment and social interaction. Students are expected to follow rules to maintain a safe and pleasant environment for everyone.
Lunchroom guidelines include:
- Use indoor voices and respectful language.
- Clean up after yourself by disposing of trash properly.
- Wait your turn in line patiently.
- Be kind and inclusive to peers during lunch.
- Follow instructions from lunch supervisors.
“Respect and responsibility make our lunchroom a welcoming place for all students.” – Valley View Student Council
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What if my child has a food allergy?
A: Please notify the school nurse and cafeteria staff immediately. We will work with you to create a safe meal plan and identify safe options for your child.
Q: Can my child bring lunch from home instead of buying school lunch?
A: Yes, students may bring their own lunches. We ask that families avoid sending peanut or tree nut products to maintain a safe environment for all students.
Q: Are beverages other than milk and juice allowed?
A: For school lunches, only the offered milk, juice, or water are provided. Students bringing lunch from home may bring water or other beverages but are encouraged to choose healthy options.
Q: How often does the lunch menu change?
A: The lunch menu rotates weekly and seasonally to incorporate fresh ingredients and variety.
Q: Is there a vegetarian option available?
A: Yes, vegetarian options are available daily. Please contact the cafeteria manager if your child requires vegetarian meals regularly.
Contact Information
If you have questions or concerns about the lunch program, please reach out to our team. We value your feedback and strive to provide the best nutritional experience for your child.
Valley View Elementary Cafeteria
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (555) 123-4567
Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Conclusion
Valley View Elementary’s lunch program is dedicated to supporting the health and academic success of all students. Through carefully planned menus, attention to nutrition, and accommodating diverse needs, we aim to create a positive mealtime experience.
We encourage families to engage with the lunch program, provide feedback, and help promote the importance of healthy eating habits. Together, we can foster a community where every child thrives.
“Nourishing the body fuels the mind.” – Valley View Elementary
