Parents Demand Healthier Lunch Options at Moreland Hills School Board Meeting

During a recent meeting of the Orange City School District Board of Education, parents and community members voiced strong concerns regarding the quality of school lunches, emphasizing the need for healthier and more nutritious options. The meeting, held on May 2, 2025, featured multiple speakers who highlighted ongoing dissatisfaction with the current food offerings, which many described as overly processed and unappetizing.

Michelle Konstantinoski, a parent and nurse practitioner, opened the discussion by expressing frustration over the lack of changes in the nutrition program since her previous appearance a year ago. She pointed out that despite a budget surplus of $500,000, the district has not utilized these funds to improve food quality or hire a dietitian, which she believes is essential for enhancing student nutrition.

Other parents echoed her sentiments, with Caroline Kangas and Stephanie Russo both advocating for a shift towards fresh fruits, vegetables, and less processed foods. Kangas noted that previous promises of improved food options following facility upgrades have not materialized, while Russo emphasized the importance of nutritious meals in supporting student health and learning.

Several speakers, including Dr. Jacob Kurowski, a pediatric gastroenterologist, underscored the critical role of proper nutrition in children's development. Kurowski warned against serving "edible poison" and called for greater nutritional transparency and guidance from experts.

The board members acknowledged the concerns raised but maintained that they are bound by federal guidelines regarding school meals. However, many parents expressed disappointment with the board's responses, feeling that their feedback has been largely ignored. The sentiment was clear: parents are demanding action and accountability from the school district to ensure that children receive healthy meals that support their growth and learning.

As the meeting concluded, the urgency for change was palpable, with parents urging the board to prioritize student nutrition and explore innovative solutions to enhance the lunch program. The discussions reflect a growing movement within the community advocating for better food choices in schools, highlighting the need for the district to take decisive steps towards improving the health and well-being of its students.