Gateway’s Food Services Director Wendy McCaul, left, gets a hand from Littleville Custodian Joanne Frappier to hang the school’s “Healthier U.S. Schools” banner. (Photo submitted)
HUNTINGTON – All schools in the Gateway Regional District will receive the Bronze Award from the US Department of Agriculture as part of its Healthier US School challenge. Gateway’s schools join the ranks of an elite group recognized for health, nutrition and fitness excellence. Only about 3 percent of 101,000 schools in the nation have achieved Healthier US status at the Bronze, Silver, Gold or Gold of Distinction levels.
The challenge is a key component of First Lady Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move! Initiative” to end childhood obesity within a generation. Schools participating in the Challenge voluntarily adopt USDA standards for food they serve at their schools, agree to provide nutrition education and provide opportunities for physical activity.
Chester Elementary, Littleville Elementary and Gateway Regional Middle School, Jr. High School and High School are receiving awards.
The award ceremony will take place on August 29th with the entire staff of the district present.
Students returning on opening day will see banners recognizing this achievement.
Food and Nutrition Director, Wendy McCaul, is promoting healthy options by offering less processed foods and more fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains.
“Our kitchens still bake from scratch, which is something to be proud of,” McCaul stated. “Many fruits and vegetables are supplied by local farms. Last year Outlook Farms delivered apples through March.”
Free/Reduced Meal applications will be sent home with students on opening day. Parents are urged to return them ASAP. This year’s meal prices are: Breakfast $1.25- this includes Cereal, Yogurt, Fruit or 100% Fruit Juice and Milk (1% or Skim). Lunch is $2.25 for Grades Pre-K-4th and $2.50 for Grades 5-12. Milk only remains at $.50. School meals are still a great value and a huge convenience to busy families.
Gateway’s Food and Nutrition Department’s vision: “To provide healthy meals to all children and promote wellness and a healthy lifestyle through nutrition education.”
