There’s a lot going on in Massachusetts school nutrition programs. In our recent review of local news, we found school districts’ nutrition programs are making changes inside schools and throughout their communities:
- As a community, Fitchburg has made great strides to prevent and reduce childhood obesity, says this feature from WBUR. Jill Lucius, nutrition director for Fitchburg schools, talks about how full-day food service (breakfast through supper) in the school nutrition program has been a key part of the anti-obesity initiative.
- The Menton-Upford District implemented the NutriKids school food payment system this year, and revenues are up $30,000, according to Milford Daily News. District Food Service Director Dianne Braga told the school committee that food-service managers are pleased with the new, efficient payment system.
- Metrowest Daily News featured the statewide survey of students’ eating habits, coordinated by JSI. Some of the most interesting information came from students’ choices when considering only healthier food groups – for example, top vegetable were garden salad, broccoli and spinach. Read more on our blog about how the survey results informed the design of a four-week menu cycle in the Massachusetts Menu Planning Project.
We know your school or district has been busy this year, and we’d love to hear about it in the comments, or submit your story to be featured among JSI Success Stories!
