Schools abandon children

by Kelly Kilpatrick

Changing the Face of School Lunches

Though it would seem like common sense, we continue to keep an eye on the bottom line regarding school lunch programs. Rather than looking out for the health and well being of our children – who are undoubtedly our future – cheap, lackluster alternatives to healthy and balanced meals make their way into our schools, and subsequently, students’ bellies. Big changes will need to be made if this dilemma is meant to be solved.

Take Money Out of the Equation

Money should not be the sole consideration for a school lunch program. Money is important, and we certainly don’t want to pay exorbitant costs for food. However, we are just perpetuating a cycle that has gone on for years. Honestly, is the cheapest food possible really going to be good quality?

Eliminate Big Business

This is the logical next step. Huge corporations are providing this cut-rate, processed food to our children, keeping them obese and hooked on terrible foods that will only continue to maintain the status quo. Big business and schools do not need to be mentioned in the same sentence, just like mortgage companies and the government, but I digress.

Support Responsible and Sustainable Growers

Supporting growers that practice environmentally sustainable farming procedures should be encouraged and patronized by our schools. As the trend in thinking shifts to more “green” living, it only makes sense for us to begin to integrate the people who are out there doing the right thing into our educational system. This is called leading by example, not “do as I say, not as I do.”

Locally Grown Foods

An even better step would be to patronize local farmers and growers that are working hard to bring food to market. Naturally, there are many educational opportunities when the food students consume comes from a local farm as well.

Educate

Students need to know what’s going on, and so do their families. Making sure that we continue to educate the public regarding the food we all consume is something that we absolutely must continue to do. Many people would be astounded at what they’re putting into their bodies, but are completely oblivious to this information. Education is the first step in helping people to make informed dietary decisions.

Kelly Kilpatrick, writes on the subject of distance education. She invites your feedback at kellykilpatrick24@gmail.com