The Waukegan Community Unit School District 60 Board of Education convened on September 23, 2025, to address several pressing issues regarding the district's food service program and its overall effectiveness. The meeting began with a discussion led by Superintendent Laverin regarding the findings from recent audits of the food service program, specifically focusing on the current vendor, Sodexo.

Superintendent Laverin recommended revisiting the audit findings and proposed a timeline for improvements to be presented in January. However, board members expressed concerns about the timeline, suggesting that initiating the Request for Proposal (RFP) process sooner could provide more options and allow for necessary adjustments to the contract. The board emphasized the importance of quality and variety in food offerings, highlighting that price alone should not dictate vendor selection.

Board member Lindsey raised specific concerns about the nutritional quality of breakfast options available at middle and high schools, noting that current offerings, such as breakfast bars and cereals, do not meet the nutritional standards expected by parents. She urged the board to consider healthier alternatives and to ensure that the food service aligns with the district's commitment to student health.

The discussion also touched on the need for improved communication and collaboration with Sodexo, particularly regarding the implementation of features like a pre-ordering app, which has been delayed. Board members expressed a desire for the vendor to contribute more actively to enhancing the food service experience, including exploring potential partnerships for facility improvements.

In response to the board's inquiries, it was noted that a comprehensive analysis of financials related to food service contracts would be provided in future meetings. The board requested data on food waste and student satisfaction to better understand the effectiveness of the current offerings.

The meeting concluded with a consensus among board members to move forward with the RFP process, allowing for a thorough evaluation of potential vendors while ensuring that student needs remain a priority. The board encouraged ongoing communication and feedback from students to enhance the food service program further.

Overall, the meeting underscored the board's commitment to improving the quality of food services in Waukegan schools, with a focus on nutritional standards, student satisfaction, and effective vendor partnerships. The next steps will involve gathering more data and initiating the RFP process to ensure that the district can provide the best possible dining experience for its students.