School lunch takes center stage during national recognition week
School cafeterias move into the big top this week as National School Lunch Week returns with a circus-themed celebration, highlighting the importance of school nutrition programs and healthy school meals that serve nearly 30 million children across the country each day.
This year’s National School Lunch Week, officially themed as “Cafeteria Circus: Where Healthy Choices Take Center Stage,” brings an exciting spotlight to the school’s midday meal and how it impacts a student’s development, learning and ability to find success. Iowa schools are encouraged to take part in this year’s celebration of the National School Lunch Program not only in the lunch room but also in classroom discussions, such as health, science, agriculture and beyond.
“School lunch is such an important part of the school day and deserves to be celebrated and discussed,” said Patti Harding, administrative consultant for the Bureau of Nutrition and Health Services. “With a healthy school lunch, students have the fuel they need to learn and develop new skills, interact with teachers and peers and continue on their pathways to achievement.”
Official National School Lunch Week branded materials are available online to assist Iowa schools and school nutrition programs with transforming their lunchrooms and classrooms into a fun, engaging circus environment. Free resources include a guide, menu ideas, decorations and graphics, social media posts and more.
“We hope all schools take a moment this week to celebrate the importance of the National School Lunch Program with their students, teachers and staff,” Harding said. “Thank you to the school nutrition program staff across the state for providing these healthy meals each and every school day. These dedicated individuals carry on a vital tradition that supports the success of so many Iowa children.”
National School Lunch Week was created by President John F. Kennedy in 1962 and has been held annually during the second week in October to highlight the impact of meals provided through the National School Lunch Program. Through the National School Lunch Program, students have access to fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein and milk with every school lunch. Over 55 million school lunches were served to Iowa students through the National School Lunch Program last school year.
Schools are invited to share their National School Lunch Week events on social media, using the hashtag #NSLW26.
Additional information on National School Lunch Week can be found on the School Nutrition Association’s website.
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