Food Services Department Overview

Congratulations to our staff that have been officially named Child Hunger Heroes!

Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank has recognized us as one of their 2023 Child Hunger Hero recipients for our contributions for outstanding food service to our students.

Learn more  bit.ly/2023-child-hunger-heroes

The K-12 School Food Services Department is a vital component of our educational institution, responsible for providing nutritious meals that support the health and well-being of our students. Comprised of a dedicated team of food service professionals, including nutritionists, chefs, kitchen staff, and administrative personnel, our department is committed to serving high-quality meals that fuel students' bodies and minds.

To achieve these goals, we have a partnership with The Pittsburgh Regional Food Service Directors (PRFSD) group.  This group is an organization of professionals committed to supporting independently operated School Food Service.  Its members are dedicated to the maintenance and improvement of Child Nutrition Programs for the benefit of students, schools, and food service professionals.  PRFSD achieves the mission through:

Membership Meetings - Providing relevant continuing education and networking opportunities

Website and Member Forum - Sharing resources to enable school districts to more effectively conduct operations

Scholarships - Supporting the development of future leaders in the field of food service, nutrition, and dietetics

Charitable Giving - Contributing towards the health and well-being of students and communities through annual monetary donations

Maintenance of Purchasing & Administrative Support - Administering Cooperative Bids to reduce costs for schools, collecting allergen and nutrient information for school food products, sharing resources & serving as mentors for new food service directors.

Our primary goal is to offer well-balanced, delicious, and culturally diverse meals that meet or exceed national nutritional standards. We understand the critical role that nutrition plays in academic performance, overall health, and well-being. Therefore, we prioritize creating a positive dining experience that encourages healthy eating habits and fosters a positive relationship with food.

Meal Planning and Nutrition: Our department develops menus that are nutritionally balanced, incorporating a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products. We collaborate with registered dietitians and nutrition experts to ensure that our meals provide essential nutrients while limiting unhealthy additives, sugars, and unhealthy fats. We accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies, working closely with families and healthcare professionals to create safe and inclusive meal options for all students.

Meal Preparation and Service: Our skilled chefs and kitchen staff follow rigorous food safety protocols and maintain high standards of hygiene during food preparation. We use high-quality ingredients and employ cooking techniques that preserve the nutritional value, flavor, and quality of the food. Meals are served in a welcoming and clean environment, where students can enjoy their meals and socialize with peers.

Farm-to-School Initiatives: We strive to incorporate locally sourced and seasonal ingredients into our meals whenever possible. By partnering with local farmers and suppliers, we support the local economy, reduce our environmental footprint, and provide students with fresh, nutritious foods. We educate students about the benefits of farm-to-school initiatives, promoting sustainable agriculture and fostering an appreciation for locally grown foods.

Wellness Education: Our department recognizes the importance of nutrition education in shaping lifelong healthy eating habits. We collaborate with teachers and school staff to incorporate nutrition education into the curriculum, providing students with the knowledge and skills to make informed food choices. We organize cooking demonstrations, taste tests, and wellness workshops to promote healthy eating behaviors and empower students to take charge of their own health.

Community Engagement: We actively engage with parents, guardians, and the broader community to foster a culture of wellness and support. We encourage open communication, seek feedback, and involve families in decision-making processes regarding menu planning and program improvements. We also collaborate with community organizations, local farmers, and health professionals to enhance our services and promote a holistic approach to student well-being.

Financial Responsibility: Our department strives to maintain financial responsibility while providing high-quality meals. We carefully manage budgets, monitor costs, and seek cost-effective purchasing strategies without compromising the nutritional value or taste of the meals we serve. We also participate in federal meal programs, such as the National School Lunch Program, to ensure equitable access to healthy meals for all students.

The K-12 School Food Services Department is dedicated to nourishing the bodies and minds of our students through nutritious, flavorful meals. By promoting healthy eating habits, providing educational opportunities, and fostering a supportive dining environment, we contribute to the overall well-being and academic success of our students.