By Kathy Enfield
As a new year began, many changes have become reality. For example, something that is important especially to young growing boys who eat like they are a big hollow tree that needs to be filled. Once the day begins, there is one thing other than the end of the school day that most students look forward to: Lunch time!
New regulations have changed the lunch program nationwide. Some confusion has been brought about, such as: what these new lunch program regulations are for and what are they trying to do? These regulations were put in place to aid in stopping obesity, have students try new, healthy foods, and to try to teach them healthy eating habits. This is done by adding more fruits and vegetables, low fat milk, all whole grains and meat is proportioned for the child’s age group.
Although the new regulations are to help and are meant for a good cause, many do not agree with them. With new portions being smaller, young students in general, especially those who are more active than the average person need more food for energy. All the restrictions and different ways of cooking the food makes it difficult for them to keep up their usual active ways. We still must remember these kids are growing. This issue has become very controversial when considering each school’s individual needs, concerns and problems.
BECKY FOOS AND Julie Bebout, assistant and head cook, prepare a meal under the new government guidlines.
Even with the excitement of starting a new job and possibly some anxiety, the new cooks, Julie Bebout and Rebecca Foos, take on the new regulations with an optimistic approach. Regardless of all the hard work that they put into making the food, they both still maintain a fast, upbeat attitude no matter what time of day. To support the program they embrace everything they make and encourage all students to eat the lunches and stay healthy.
“Being new cooks and implementing the new guidelines have been a challenge, but it has also been rewarding. We believe strongly with the State that it was time for a change, but we also agree with others for some flexibility within the system,” said Bebout and Foos.
“Since the new federal lunch guidelines were established for public schools this year, our cooks have been working extremely hard to make our lunches the best they possibly can.” said Dr. Rod Weber. “It has certainly been challenging for our school district and we hope the federal government will update the new regulations.
He goes on, “I would like to personally thank the students, parents, staff and community for their understanding and continued support for our lunch program.
There is always room for improvement, especially when the new lunch program is not always supported in the way it should be by the public at large. Hopefully, all the mixed feelings will be resolved with some further improvements and modifications.
