Why The Brunswick School Treats Nutrition as Part of the Classroom

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JERSEY CITY, NJ — At The Brunswick School, learning extends beyond reading, math, and science. School leaders say one of the most important topics students study is healthy eating and nutrition.

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The Jersey City independent school has made nutrition a central part of its educational philosophy through an Organic Meal Program that provides students with fresh breakfasts, lunches, and afternoon snacks prepared daily.

More than 700 meals are served each day under the direction of Culinary Director and Executive Chef Edgar Portillo, who believes healthy eating plays a critical role in a child's ability to learn and grow.

"We believe healthy children learn better," said Portillo. "When children are nourished with wholesome foods, they have the energy and focus they need throughout the day. Nutrition isn't separate from education—it supports it."

The school's food program emphasizes fresh, minimally processed ingredients with an emphasis on organic and locally sourced products whenever possible. Meals are prepared from scratch and are designed specifically for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and elementary-age students.

According to Portillo, the goal is not only to feed children but also to help them develop lifelong healthy eating habits.

"Children often need to try a new food several times before they accept it," he said. "Part of our job is introducing them to different fruits, vegetables, grains, and proteins in a positive way so they become comfortable making healthy choices."

Students begin experiencing a variety of age-appropriate foods as early as four months old, with menus gradually expanding as children grow. Families are also encouraged to continue healthy habits at home, with recipes and food samples occasionally shared.

Many menu items are made entirely in-house, including hummus, Greek yogurt ranch dip, muffins, macaroni and cheese, grilled cheese sandwiches, and baked goods. Even the pizza sauce incorporates extra vegetables, while recipes are adjusted to meet the developmental needs of younger children.

Safety is another major focus of the program. During enrollment, families provide detailed information about food allergies, dietary restrictions, cultural preferences, and religious requirements. The culinary team uses that information to prepare individualized meal substitutions when needed.

"Families trust us with their children's health every day," Portillo said. "That's a responsibility we take very seriously."

School officials say the investment in nutrition reflects The Brunswick School's broader philosophy of educating the whole child—supporting academic success while also encouraging healthy physical, emotional, and social development.

As Portillo looks ahead, he says he enjoys creating seasonal menus and introducing students to new foods that are both nutritious and appealing.

"Every meal is another opportunity to help children grow, learn, and build a lifelong appreciation for healthy food," he said.

For many Jersey City families, that commitment offers reassurance that the same attention given to academics is also being applied to what students eat each day.

The Brunswick School

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