Vernon School Nutrition Staffers Honored As 'Heroes'

VERNON, CT — Friday was a chance for school system administrators to honor another set of "heroes." The day was dubbed School Lunch Hero day.

The day was meant to recognize the Vernon school system foor service staff not only for the thousands of meals served up curbside since the school have been closed for the coronavirus pandemic but for their normal routine as well.

"The community has been so appreciative of the hard work the school nutrition staff have been doing to feed kids during the COVID-19 crisis," said Elizabeth Fisher, the food and nutrition director for the Vernon school system. "But it’s important for us to remember that these school nutrition heroes work hard all year long to feed children in school every single day so that they can learn and grow."

(Vernon Public Schools/Elizabeth Fisher)

School nutrition employees must "balance many roles" and follow numerous federal, state and local regulations to "ensure safe and healthy meals are available in schools," Fisher said.

"School Lunch Hero Day provides the opportunity for the community to thank these hard-working heroes,” Fisher added.

Federal nutrition standards ensure that school cafeterias always offer low-fat or fat-free milk, fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein. School meals also meet limits on calories, sodium and unhealthy fats.

(Vernon Public Schools/Elizabeth Fisher)

"The importance and nutritional value of school meals are well documented. For many children, school lunch is the most important and nutrient-rich meal of their day," Fisher said.

To learn more about the school nutrition program for Vernon Public Schools visit
https://www.vernonpublicschools.org/departments/food-services-menus.