Step behind the serving line to catch a glimpse of modern-day school meals, and learn about the people who help ensure that America鈥檚 students are well-fed and poised for academic success.

From nutrition requirements and statistics to school nutrition success stories and national campaigns, this is everything you need to know about our nation鈥檚 school meal programs.

52255248067_51c42bda2d_k

Key Facts

School Nutrition Standards

To receive federal reimbursements, school meals are required to meet strict nutrition standards, offering a balance of lean protein, whole grains, fruits, vegetables and low- or fat-free milk.

School Meal Statistics

Nearly 30 million students eat school lunch every day. Get more statistics regarding the nation鈥檚 school meals programs.

The People Behind School Meals

kids-at-school

School Nutrition Success Stories

Learn how school nutrition professionals and meal programs have made a difference in the lives of America鈥檚 students.

52256238068_e6a4cdf90a_o

School Nutrition Professionals

From chefs to nutritionists and industry partners to state agencies, learn more about the people who collaborate to ensure school meal programs thrive.

Annual Observances

National School Lunch Week

School lunches are worth celebrating! Learn more about National School Lunch Week (NSLW), commemorated annually in October.

National School Breakfast Week

National School Breakfast Week (NSBW), celebrated annually in March, honors the importance of a nutritious morning meal in fueling students for success.

School Lunch Hero Day

Recognize the impact of school nutrition professionals on School Lunch Hero Day (SLHD), occurring annually on the first Friday of May.

Latest News

School Nutrition Magazine

Feature

How Managers Can Address Pervasive Sources of Workplace Stress

January 5, 2024

Mission-driven, meaningful work. Camaraderie. Appreciation. Belonging. Work-life balance. The opportunity to learn and grow. These are the primary reasons people enjoy work. And yet the American Institute of Stress finds that 80% of workers feel stressed on the job.


Read More
Feature

The Art of Saying “No”

January 5, 2024

Saying 鈥渘o,鈥 can often be a challenge. It takes courage and self-discipline, but in the end, it allows us to say 鈥測es鈥 to what matters most. Here are some reasons why saying “no” is so difficult, and tactics to overcome them.


Read More
Feature

Loosening the Ties That Bind

January 5, 2024

If you’re a caregiver for a loved one鈥攌ids, parents, partner, friend or anyone in between鈥攊t can be easy to get overwhelmed. Here are some strategies you can adopt that will help you avoid burning out.


Read More