Tahlequah Public Schools Child Nutrition Department: Enhancing Mealtime Experiences for Students
Over the past year, the Tahlequah Public Schools Child Nutrition Department has made several exciting changes with the goal of making mealtimes more enjoyable for our students. Among these updates, we’ve partnered with a new Food Service Management Company, Chartwell’s, and are participating in the Community Eligibility Program (CEP), which provides all students in the district with a free breakfast and lunch every day. We’re continually exploring new ways to enhance our program and provide the best meal service possible.
A Successful Partnership with Chartwell’s
Our collaboration with Chartwell’s has been a significant success. Students have expressed their love for the new food options, and the engagement from Chartwell’s Director of Dining, Colin Mays, and Executive Chef, Jean Aldridge, has brought exciting changes. One of the most popular additions is the Discovery Kitchens at our elementary schools. These pop-up displays feature regional recipes and are designed to spark curiosity with delicious meals and interactive activities for students.
Student’s Choice Events
In November, Tahlequah High School (THS) and Tahlequah Middle School (TMS) participated in the “Student’s Choice” initiative. During this event, students tasted new recipes and voted for their favorites. The overwhelming winner was Big City Barbecue, which was featured at both schools in January. In February, students can enjoy the new Mac and Cheeseyology line. A new Student’s Choice event will be held at these schools in March, giving students the opportunity to continue shaping their meal options.
Introducing Mood Boost
In February and March, we’ll be launching a nutrition education program called Mood Boost at our elementary schools. This program focuses on how food can improve mood and overall well-being. Students will have access to new lunch menus, tasting events, fun activities, and engaging characters. Through Mood Boost, students will learn how healthy eating patterns, particularly those rich in fruits and vegetables, can help them feel better and succeed in school.
Breakfast Carts for Increased Access
To improve breakfast access, we’ve introduced portable breakfast carts at THS and TMS. These carts, located near the administration offices and the lower gym/math wing, provide students with greater opportunities to take advantage of the free breakfasts. We understand that not all students can make it to the cafeteria in time for breakfast, so these carts aim to bring breakfast closer to them.
The Impact of the Community Eligibility Program (CEP)
The CEP has been a tremendous asset to our district and families. On average, families with two children who eat both breakfast and lunch at school save around $1,650 annually. The continuation of this program depends on strong student participation, so we encourage families to take full advantage of the free meals offered daily.
A Year of Success
Change often brings both challenges and opportunities, and this school year has been no exception. Our goal is to ensure that all children have access to nutritious meals that provide the foundation for strong minds and healthy bodies. Since August, we have served:
106,444 breakfasts
226,035 lunches
4,100 snacks
49,608 suppers
This totals nearly 400,000 meals served so far this year—a major accomplishment for our department!
We are grateful for your continued support, and it is a pleasure to serve your children every day.
Heidi Krueger, Child Nutrition Assistant Director