Step behind the serving line to catch a glimpse of modern-day school meals, and learn about the people who help ensure that America’s 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’s school meal programs.
Key Facts
The People Behind School Meals
School Nutrition Success Stories
Learn how school nutrition professionals and meal programs have made a difference in the lives of America’s students.
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.
School Nutrition Magazine
“Crisis” Management
When life gets overwhelming, indulging in a comfort food favorite can be an effective way to manage stress. Enter: Domino’s new Emergency Pizza Program!
Farmer-Owned Is Food-Forward and Future-Focused
Today’s consumers are increasingly concerned with where their food comes from—and students are no exception. Working with agricultural or farmer-owned cooperatives is one way to ensure you know where and how the food you serve is sourced.
Census Bureau Report Shows Rising U.S. Poverty Rates
Poverty rates in the U.S. rose by 60% from 2021 to 2022, but school lunch programs are still successful in helping to remove people from poverty.