National School Lunch Week - October 14-18, 2013
Greenville County Schools is celebrating National School Lunch Week October 14-18 to recognize the more than 750 food service operators serving 14,000 breakfasts and 55,000 lunches each day to students in 100 locations across Greenville County.
Students are eating healthier lunches, thanks to the Culinary Creations program in every elementary school offering healthier entrée choices, made from scratch dishes, and a generous selection of fresh fruits and vegetables. For example, students may choose from enchilada pie or the hummus plate, along with fresh vegetables from the Vegetation Station and a bowl of homemade tomato basil soup.
Deborah Howell, Cafeteria Manager at Mitchell Road Elementary School, said she and her staff enjoy preparing fresh foods. “We really love the early morning hours when all the different aromas fill the kitchen. From sautéing onions and celery for the soup, to baking homemade granola for the yogurt parfaits, we know we’re serving children healthy, nutritious meals,” she said. Howell added that the best part of her day is when she sees more children choosing the hummus plate or coming back for a second serving of frittata and saying, “I love it!”
Research shows that children who have healthy diets and get regular physical activity are more likely to perform better academically. These healthy habits may also play a role in helping children improve concentration, attendance, classroom behavior, and self-esteem.