Rockdale ISD, and partner Southwest Food-service Excellence, is now offering free meals at breakfast and lunch to all students at the elementary and intermediate campuses.
Under the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) program, those campuses became eligible in August to receive lunch at school--at no cost to any family at Rockdale ISD.
On Aug. 26, the district expanded the free dinner program to include all RISD students who attend the district’s after-school enrichment program at any campus.
Students can enjoy a full, balanced meal, served at each campus from 4:30 to 5 p.m. each school day.
In September, over 1900 of these after-school dinner meals were served. Menu choices included wraps, deli sandwiches, cheeseburgers and chicken sandwiches—all served with fresh fruit, vegetables and milk.
These meals are not only 100-percent compliant with USDA nutrition standards, but are also delicious.
The program now features a uniquely fresh-from-scratch focus, as well as an extensive variety of menu options to keep students excited to eat at school. Southwest FSE regularly solicits feedback from Rockdale ISD students and staff to ensure that menus are designed with an eye for specific, regional taste preferences.
The new program is winning positive feedback from students, parents and faculty. “The Community Eligibility Provision has been a huge benefit for our campuses. Our students are eating more regularly now, and we know they are getting well balanced, nutritious meals every day,” Pam Kaufmann, assistant superintendent, said. “We have seen a decrease in tardiness because families want their children to get to school in time to get breakfast. One of the biggest advantages is that staff no longer has to question students about money, since they all have access to meals every day.”
Reminders—Parents of junior-high and high schoolers are highly encouraged to fill out free and reduced-price school meals applications so that CEP-provided free breakfasts and lunches can also be offered to the district’s upper grade level students in the future.
Application at bottom of page at rockdaleisd.net/departments/foodservice) For questions contact SFE Foodservice GM Sheri Wheeler at swheeler@rockdaleisd.net.
Events—SFE also hosts many extra events for Rockdale ISD students and the community.
Oct. 10—Homecoming tailgate barbeque, Rockdale Junior High.
Oct. 11—Homecoming Celebration with new menu items—featuring a variety of wings, spirit T-shirts and signed footballs—at all four campuses
Oct. 15—Farmer’s Market and Taste Testing, partnering with FFA high school
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