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Kittery School Department Nutrition Program
CONGRATULATION TO CHERYL DIXON
SCHOOL NUTRITION ASSOCIATION
LOUISE SUBLETTE AWARD OF EXCELLENCE WINNER
Changes in Kittery School Nutrition!
With childhood obesity on the rise we need to do our part to help teach children healthy eating. Although we have always strictly followed the guidelines when it comes to food in our schools, this year we have implemented the Institute of Medicine’s Standards for Healthy Food in Schools. Snacks have no more than 35% of calories from fat or sugar, no more than 10% of calories from saturated fat, and are less than 200 calories. We are working towards increased fiber in our menus by adding more whole grains and beans. What does this mean for your child? They are being offered some foods that were not found on our menus before. Beans are a low-fat, high fiber food and they are now a regular ingredient on our salad bars and in many recipes. Parents should encourage their children to try new foods. Good
nutrition has to be everyone’s responsibility.
Bag Lunches and Safe Storage
School meals are prepared and held at safe temperatures so that your child’s meals are safe. When visiting the schools, I like to see what students are eating in their bag lunches. I am often surprised by the number of children eating items that should be refrigerated and reheated to safe temperatures such as pastas, chicken nuggets & pizza. Remember that if you pack a meal for your child it should be in an insulated bag with a cold pack to keep it safe. Schools tend to get very warm this time of year and foods will grow bacteria in a very short time if left in the danger zone (40 to 140 degrees) for too long. Any food item with moisture, starch or protein that is not properly stored or reheated puts your child at risk for food borne illnesses.
FARM TO SCHOOL PROJECT
WHY BUY LOCAL?
* Farm to School programs have been demonstrated to be effective and innovative methods to get kids to eat healthy foods, improve academic performance, and provide hands-on experiential education to the greater benefit of our educational systems.
* Farm to School programs help preserve working farmland, invigorate local economies, rebuild and revitalize communities, and promote environmental stewardship.
* Maines' public schools are tax supported and buying local products strengthens the local tax base.
SCHOOL BREAKFAST IN KITTERY IS A HUGE SUCCESS
School breakfast is here for everyone! The morning routine can sometimes be rushed and stressful. As students grow many have difficulties eating very early in the morning due to late homework assignments, early morning stomach issues, or just not enough time. Children in their early teens tend to sleep as long as possible, often leaving the house without anything to eat. We all know that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Studies have proven that not only is a morning meal a healthy way to start the day, but children who eat a balanced breakfast are less likely to struggle with childhood obesity. Students who skip meals generally make more visits to the school nurse.
You can't teach a hungry child, so it's important to make sure all children get a nutritious breakfast every day we are in school. Make your morning routine easier by taking advantage of the school breakfast program. Students receive a breakfast grain product, a serving of fruit or juice and 8 ounces of fresh Maine Milk. Choices include a variety of low sugar cereals, low sugar/low fat breakfast buns, low fat muffins, bagels & more. We serve several juice choices & fruit daily and offer only 1% or lower fat fresh Maine milk.
This year, students who qualify for reduced meals will get their school breakfast for FREE due to new legislation that was passed with the help of Maine School Food Service Associations Legislation Committee. Parents are always welcome to come to breakfast with their child, we hope to see you there!
Breakfast Prices: Paid Students - $1.25
Reduced price to qualified students - FREE - new this year due to new legislation
No cost to those who qualify for free meals
Adults: $1.50
A school breakfast includes: 1 to 2 oz. bread/grain serving, a 4 oz. fruit or juice serving, and an 8 oz. serving of milk. There may also be proteins offered, such as eggs or yogurt. Students must use their NutriKids accounts for all meal and food purchases.
Lunch Prices: Full Pay Students: Grades K-8 - $2.00 Grades 9-12 - $2.25
Reduced price to qualified students - $ .40
No cost to those who qualify for free meals
Adults: $3.75
A school meal includes an entree, fruit, vegetable choice and 8 oz. of more of 1% or lower fat milk choice. We have an offer vs. serve program, students may refuse part of the meal if they take 3 components of that are offered. All Kittery School cafeterias feature salad bars with fruit and vegetable choices daily unless noted.
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