Albuquerque Public Schools: School Lunch Hero Day Is May 6

Albuquerque NM

06 May, 2022

7:57 PM

Description

Press release from Albuquerque Public Schools: May 4, 2022 APS nutrition professionals have a lot on their plate. They prepare healthy food, adhere to strict nutrition standards, navigate student food allergies, and offer service with a smile. To celebrate their hard work and commitment, Albuquerque schools will celebrate School Lunch Hero Day on May 6. This day, celebrated annually since 2013, was designated by The School Nutrition Association and Jarrett Krosoczka, author of the "Lunch Lady" graphic novel series. School Lunch Hero Day provides an opportunity for parents, students, school staff, and communities to thank those who provide healthy meals to nearly 75,000 students in our district. This year's celebration is very special because Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham proclaimed, for the first time ever, May 6, 2022, as School Lunch Hero Day. At full staff, APS usually employs 700 food service workers. Currently, there are only 450 amazing food service employees who provide 310,000 meals per week and 11 million meals per year to our students. Our students' favorite meal items include yogurt, cereal, Frito pie, burritos, orange Asian chicken with fried rice, and pizza. 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. National 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. School Lunch Hero Day provides the opportunity for the community to thank these hard-working heroes. This press release was produced by Albuquerque Public Schools. The views expressed here are the author's own.