SchoolMealParentDiscussionGuide

Let’s Talk About School Meals

A Discussion Guide for Parents and Families

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Let’s Talk About School Meals

Dr. Linette Dodson Deputy Superintendent, Georgia School Nutrition

Welcome to "Let's Talk About School Meals," a resource designed to provide parents and families with valuable insights into Georgia school nutrition. Our goal is to foster meaningful conversations between parents, students, and local school nutrition programs. We encourage you to reach out to your local school nutrition director for any questions and to make connections to the school meals in your area. We hope you find this resource informative and engaging as we work together to support the wellbeing of our students.

Included in this Guide: School Meal Conversation Starters for Parents & Students School Meal Engagement Opportunities & Checklist Supporting Health & Wellness in School Nutrition Sustainability in School Nutrition School Nutrition & Allergy Awareness 5 Reasons to Eat School Meals 5 Reasons to Complete Free & Reduced Meal Applications Preparing your PreK/Kindergarten Student for Eating School Meals How to Learn More About School Meals & Summer Meals

Let’s Talk About School Meals Did you know?

All students have access to Georgia grown foods and seasonal menu options.

Participation in school meals supports academic performance.

Eating school meals boosts the brain and provides energy to help students stay focused and ready to learn.

Questions to Ask Your Student What did you have for lunch today?

What was offered that you did not select?

Did you try any new foods at school today? What did you like or dislike about them?

What was your favorite thing that you ate today?

What vegetables and fruits did you eat today?

Who did you eat lunch with?

What options did you have to choose from? Which items did you select and why?

Is there a food you tried at school that you would like to eat at home? Is there a school recipe that you would like to prepare at home?

Document provided by the Georgia Department of Education School Nutrition Division. USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

Let’s Talk About School Meals Engagement Checklist Join your school wellness committee and participate in school activities.

Connect with your local school nutrition director to learn more about school meals.

Review school menus with your student and discuss the available food choices.

Follow your local school nutrition program on social media or visit their website for more information.

Questions to Ask Your Local School Nutrition Director Can I visit my child’s school and eat a school meal with them at breakfast or lunch?

How do you decide what is served to students each day?

Who does the menu planning?

Where does the food come from? Do you serve any locally sourced or Georgia grown products?

How can I support my student in making good choices in their school cafeteria?

How do you handle food allergies at my child’s school?

Document provided by the Georgia Department of Education School Nutrition Division. USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

Let’s Talk About School Meals Health & Wellness in School Nutrition Did you know?

School nutrition programs are committed to promoting student health and wellness through nutritious meals, balanced menus, food-based learning and wellness initiatives.

School nutrition programs follow USDA nutrition guidelines to ensure meals are balanced with whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy.

School meals support students’ physical and cognitive growth and development.

Schools feature a variety of fresh, seasonal produce on menus and participate in farm to school programs to source local ingredients.

Supporting Health and Wellness Stay involved with school wellness initiatives by: 1. Participating in your school's wellness committee or activities.

2. Encouraging your child to try new foods offered as part of school meals.

3. Contacting your school nutrition director for more details on wellness initiatives in your school.

Document provided by the Georgia Department of Education School Nutrition Division. USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

Let’s Talk About School Meals Sustainability in School Nutrition Did you know?

Sustainability is a key part of school nutrition, helping reduce waste, conserve resources, and support environmentally responsible practices.

Students can choose what they take from the school meal options, preventing unnecessary food waste.

Some schools participate in composting programs, turning kitchen food scraps into soil for school gardens.

Recycling efforts help reduce waste from packaging and single-use plastics.

Supporting Sustainability Stay involved with sustainability by: 1. Talking with your child about only taking what they will eat in the cafeteria.

2. Volunteering with school garden programs or farm-to-school and wellness initiatives in your district.

3. Contacting your local school nutrition director to learn more about sustainability programs in your system.

Document provided by the Georgia Department of Education School Nutrition Division. USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

Let’s Talk About School Meals School Nutrition & Allergy Safety Did you know?

Ensuring a safe and healthy mealtime experience for students with food allergies is a priority in school nutrition programs.

School cafeterias follow strict protocols to prevent cross-contact, check ingredient labels, and provide allergen-free options when needed.

School nurses and cafeteria staff collaborate to support students with allergies.

Action Items for Students with Food Allergies 1. Inform the school nurse and cafeteria manager of your child’s allergies and submit a Medical Statement for Special Dietary Needs if accommodation is required.

2. Review school menus to help your student make informed meal choices.

3. Contact your school nutrition director for more details about allergy safety.

Document provided by the Georgia Department of Education School Nutrition Division. USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.