Nutrition professionals in the Ridgefield schools have a lot on their plate. They prepare healthy food, adhere to strict nutrition standards, and navigate through a multitude of the latest nutrition news, such as student food allergies, to name a few. Through it all, consistently and without fail, they welcome countless students every school day, providing them with healthy and nutritious meals.\r\n
\r\nTo celebrate their hard work and commitment, Ridgefield schools will celebrate the fifth annual School Lunch Hero Day on Friday, May 5th. This day, celebrated annually since 2013, was designated by The School Nutrition Association and Jarrett Krosoczka, author of the “Lunch Lady” graphic novel series. \r\n
\r\nSchool Lunch Hero Day provides an opportunity for parents, students, school staff and communities to thank those who provide healthy meals to 30 million of America’s students each school day.\r\n
\r\nRidgefield School District will honor its kitchen staff with lots of yellow Hero balloons and special gifts. All across the school district, school nutrition professionals will be honored with thanks, cards, and recognition from students, school staff, parents, and the community. \r\n
\r\n“School nutrition employees must balance many roles and follow numerous federal, state and local regulations to ensure safe and healthy meals are available in schools,” said Connie Vowels, the district’s Food Service Director. “School Lunch Hero Day provides an opportunity for the community to thank those hardworking heroes.”\r\n
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Federal nutrition standards ensure that school cafeterias always offer low-fat or fat-free milk, fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein. School meals also meet limits on calories, sodium and unhealthy fats.
\r\nThe importance and nutritional value of school meals are well documented. For many children, school lunch is the most important and nutrient-rich meal of their day. \r\n
\r\nRidgefield’s Food Services program offers many healthy choices for all the grade levels. It feeds close to 1,000 students a day for lunch and approximately 200 students for breakfast. The program also provides an outside grab & go breakfast at Ridgefield High School and an after school snack cart there twice a week.\r\n
\r\nIn addition, the program provides fun activities for Ridgefield students during Taste Washington Day, Dr. Seuss’ Birthday, National School Lunch Week and National School Breakfast Week.\r\n
\r\nFor more information about School Lunch Hero Day, visit www.schoollunchheroday.com .