DPS nutrition department shifts summer lunch program from parks to school sites

During the recent Deming Public Schools (DPS) regular meeting on June 19, 2025, the board discussed significant changes to the district's summer lunch program, which has been a staple of community support for the past 25 years. Interim Superintendent Roscoe and other board members presented the rationale behind the decision to discontinue serving meals in local parks, a move that has raised concerns among community members.

The summer lunch program has traditionally operated alongside DPS's summer school and district programs, providing free meals to children aged 18 and under. However, the decision to limit meal service to school sites was made during a budget meeting earlier this year. Factors influencing this decision included low enrollment and participation rates, financial losses during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the need to ensure the safety and well-being of nutrition staff.

Superintendent Roscoe highlighted the challenges faced by staff when serving meals in parks, including safety hazards such as threats from individuals and encounters with stray animals. The lack of access to bathroom facilities and the extreme heat conditions further complicated the situation, prompting the district to prioritize the health and safety of its employees.

The board emphasized that while the summer lunch program will continue, it will now focus on school property, where meals can be served in a controlled environment. Community members will still have access to mobile meal sites, which will operate throughout the area.

The decision reflects a broader trend of adapting school nutrition programs to meet both community needs and operational realities. As the district navigates these changes, it remains committed to providing nutritious meals to children while ensuring the safety of its staff. The board plans to keep the community informed about these adjustments and their implications for the summer lunch program moving forward.