District highlights local food sourcing and warns federal shutdown could threaten school meal funding

Franklin County schools are expanding locally sourced options in cafeterias and testing new menu items, the districtnutrition director told the board on Oct. 13, while the superintendent warned that a federal shutdown could disrupt reimbursements that help keep meals free for all students.

Nutrition director Mrs. Sneed told the board the division is partnering with local farms and suppliers, including 4 Oaks (hydroponic greens), Millwood dairies and the Beaumont Dairy Farm, and exploring regional suppliers such as North Carolina blue catfish and KC Farms beef. She said a recent sample of North Carolina blue catfish, breaded in regionally produced heirloom brown rice, was served at Geroux and that 75% of students sampled indicated they liked it.

The district is exploring a pilot to use Homestead Creamery milk bladders at one school and is working through logistical issues such as cup sizes and non-foam serving options. Staff said local sourcing can reduce food miles, support farmers and increase student engagement with meals when students see food grown locally.

Separately, Superintendent Sears told the board the federal government shutdown could affect school nutrition reimbursements; the district has reserves that will cover the program through October and perhaps into November, but an extended lapse in federal payments could create funding challenges for the universal free-meal model currently in place. The board and staff said they will monitor the situation and advise the board if budget action is required.