Between preparing healthy food, adhering to strict nutrition standards, navigating student food allergies, and offering service with a smile, Haywood County Schools nutrition professionals have a lot on their plate. To celebrate their hard work and commitment, Haywood County schools will celebrate School Nutrition Employee Week May 7-12. This week 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.

All across the school district, school nutrition professionals will be honored with thanks, cards, and recognition from students, school staff, parents, and the community.

“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. School Nutrition Employee Week provides the opportunity for the community to thank these hardworking heroes” said School Nutrition Director Alison Francis. 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.

The 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. To learn more about the school nutrition program for Haywood County Schools, visit www.haywood.k12.nc.us.

The School Nutrition Association (SNA) is a national, non-profit professional organization representing more than 57,000 school nutrition professionals across the country. Founded in 1946, SNA and its members are dedicated to making healthy school meals and nutrition education available to all students. To find out more about today’s school meals, visit www.schoolnutrition.org/ SchoolMeals.

Submitted by:  Melanie Batchelor, School Nutrition Supervisor Dietician