Lifetime Citizen Portal Access — AI Briefings, Alerts & Unlimited Follows
Middle school students’ capstone leads Bayshore schools to add and label halal lunch options
Loading...
Summary
Seventh‑grade students at Bayshore Middle School presented a civics capstone that prompted the district to add halal items to the middle‑school menu and mark them with an 'H' to improve access and communication for Muslim families.
BAY SHORE, N.Y. — Students from Bayshore Middle School told the Bay Shore Union Free School District board on Sept. 25 that a seventh‑grade civics capstone led district staff to add halal entrees to the middle school cafeteria menu and to mark halal options with an “H” on monthly menus.
Vista McDougall, speaking on behalf of the middle school, framed the change as part of the district’s effort to “embrace that diversity and celebrate the diverse cultures that we have here in Bayshore.” Teacher Tara Ruzello described the capstone: students identify a local issue, research it, choose age‑appropriate actions (petitions, letters, meetings) and then present findings to peers and administrators. “Once they come up with their age appropriate action, the most important part for them is to reflect and present to their peers,” Ruzello said.
Two students who led the effort said they emailed district officials, sent a letter to the superintendent and met with district staff, who researched halal manufacturers and helped place new menu items. “During the superintendent meeting, we met some great people… and we discussed the improper representation… and how it can be changed,” one student said. District staff confirmed the changes and said families were notified via a Friday letter and other communications.
Board members praised the students’ advocacy. One member said, “You came with authority… you spoke very well,” and another noted that the menu change also opens opportunities for other students to taste new foods.
The presentation concluded with a reminder from staff that halal items are indicated on the monthly menu and that the district would continue the process of communication with families. No formal vote was required; the changes were implemented administratively following the students’ meetings with district officials.
The presentation was part of a regularly scheduled board work session that included other routine business.
