Parents and staff discuss menu choices and PTO-funded cafeteria monitors after past budget cuts

The committee reviewed school meal operations and parent feedback on menus and snacks. District leaders reminded the group that federal USDA rules set nutrition constraints on sodium and sugar and described the 'offer versus serve' approach that gives students menu choices without compelling every component.

"We do try to really look at what students choose and then tailor our ordering accordingly," the food services presenter said, explaining the risk that new menu items may not sell and could generate spoilage. Staff distributed a short survey and asked parents to return it as a written record so feedback can be incorporated.

Committee members also raised concerns about a la carte snack timing; the district confirmed junior school snack sales were restricted to certain times because students were eating snacks instead of meals.

On staffing, presenters said budget cuts had eliminated paid cafeteria monitors in prior cuts and that PTOs at Woodridge, Cambridge and Howard stepped in to fund monitors this year. One parent asked whether PTO funding would be expected in subsequent years; the presenter said sustaining monitors is ultimately a PTO decision unless the board restores funding.

The committee accepted the survey and encouraged continued feedback to inform menu and monitoring decisions.