Changes in the school lunch program

July 17, 2012

Welcome back to the 2012-13 school year.  We are excited about some new changes in the school lunch program.  New Federal guidelines are focusing on the students making choices in healthy eating options.

The focus this year is on fruits, vegetables and whole grains to promote a healthier lifestyle. The students will be encouraged to try new fruits and vegetables.  Half of a student's tray should be filled with fruits and vegetables and the other half grains, meat, and dairy.

We offer 5 different food items for lunch: fruits, vegetables, grains, meat or meat alternate and dairy.  The Nebraska School Nutrition requires each student to take a minimum of 3 different items to qualify as a meal.  Students who do not have at least 3 different food items on their tray will be required to go back and choose something else to become a meal.

The students will be offered choices of fruits and vegetables this year. Students may combine their fruits and vegetables, but will be required to have one half cup or more on their tray. 

We would like you to assist us in explaining these changes to your child(ren) prior to the first day of school.  This will help the students to be familiar with the procedure before they go through the lunch line.

We would like to thank you for your support in making the lunch program a success for your child. If you ever have questions, please don't hesitate to give the foodservice a call about your concerns.

Lexington Food Service Department
308-324-6457