Wellness committee outlines policy work and explains food‑service RFP that favored local sourcing

At the May 7 study session the district wellness committee presented its annual report, describing three core policy areas — nutrition, physical activity and broad wellness initiatives — and outlining subcommittee goals and accomplishments for the year.

Committee leaders told the board they used the state’s new RFP procurement process to select a Food Service Management Company. The process allowed evaluation criteria beyond lowest bid; committee members said they included rubric points for a vendor’s ability to provide locally sourced food. The committee received and evaluated four proposals, conducted vendor site visits, and recommended Quest; the board approved that recommendation on April 16.

Presenters said Quest facilitated menu‑planning feedback meetings this year (eight meetings across elementary, middle and high schools), implemented multiple ways for students to provide input (sticker surveys and QR‑code feedback), and supported the Harvest of the Month taste tests. The committee also described early work on an unused‑food sharing plan (a share‑table concept) intended for next year and noted the need to develop consistent messaging and marketing for claimable meals versus share bins.

Board members asked about implementation details (the three of five meals rule for a claimable meal, how share tables would be marketed, and parent/family workshop ideas). The committee said it will prioritize the unused‑food plan next year and continue to recruit student and parent representation on the committee.