National School Lunch Week: Thank You, ACPS Nutrition Staff!

National School Lunch Week, Oct. 14-18, and its 2024 theme of “School Lunch Pirates: Find Your Treasure!” helps put the focus on the importance of a well-rounded diet that includes eating from all food groups. The Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS) Office of School Nutrition Services encourages our students to expand their food choices as staff regularly incorporate new items onto school menus. Staff also promote the acceptance of a variety of items through taste testing events and education.

“Eating nutritious foods has a direct impact on academic achievement, performance and overall well-being. Nutrient-rich foods provide essential nutrients that support brain health and cognitive function, leading to improved memory and concentration,” Office of School Nutrition Services Director Dr. Eric Coleman said. He points out that research shows students who consistently consume a nutritious diet, or even just have the opportunity to eat enough in general, have improved attendance and better academic outcomes, like higher test scores and grades. Additionally, getting adequate nutrition through food can support a healthy immune system, reducing absences from school due to sickness or injuries.

During the week of Oct. 7-11, 2024, ACPS joined schools across the Commonwealth to increase awareness of the Virginia Farm-to-School program. The program connects students with locally grown food in cafeterias, preschools and summer feeding programs while enhancing educational opportunities in school gardens, student farms and land labs, classrooms and cafeterias. Naomi L. Brooks Elementary School students tasted apples from Peterson Farms to celebrate the eighth annual “Crunch Heard ‘Round the Commonwealth” on Oct. 10, 2024.