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Royal Oak wellness committee highlights food-service changes: composting, halal options and Global Eats
Summary
At the Feb. 13 board meeting the district's Wellness Committee reported rising meal participation, new halal menu items in elementary schools, expanded composting and allergen training completion for food-service staff.
Members of the Royal Oak Schools wellness committee updated the board Feb. 13 on nutrition and wellness initiatives in the district, reporting higher meal participation year‑to‑date and several changes intended to broaden food options and reduce waste.
Committee member (and presenter) Kathy Abella introduced Athletic Director Daniel Russell and Food Service Director Mike Jacobs, who described recent food service work. Jacobs said, “Average daily breakfasts are up. Average daily lunches are up. Sales are up.”
Program details presented to trustees included:
• Composting and packaging: Several schools are piloting or expanding composting stations; the district has started using a compostable plastic cup for side vegetables and fruits at some sites.
• Menu diversity: Halal burgers and chicken nuggets were introduced in elementary schools in February in response to community requests; the district said the items were two weeks into the pilot and may be expanded to middle and high school depending on results.
• Global Eats: The district’s cafeteria program is featuring international menus; February’s highlight focused on India with middle‑ and high‑school menus and plans to adapt offerings for elementary side dishes.
• Allergen and safety training: Food service staff completed Fair Chex (allergen) training and received certification, the presentation said.
Committee members noted the wellness work ties into the district’s strategic plan and school improvement goals, and they encouraged better digital outreach for parents to explain programs and resources available through counselors and school psychologists. Trustees praised the committee’s engagement and suggested additional parent communications and partnership opportunities.
The wellness committee said it meets quarterly and includes staff and community members; the board was asked to encourage parents and community partners to join committee work and attend events.
