Fireside PTO
Seven Nuggets of Information
By Margretta Risi & Tam Dalle Molle
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Thanks to all of you who came out on a bitter cold evening to join us for Tuesday's PTO meeting. Our special guests were Ann Cooper and Deb McCormick of BVSD Nutritional Services, and our very own Lexi Kermani of the Fireside Cafeteria. The parents in attendance learned a lot of things we didn't know before, so we wanted to highlight a few things that surprised a lot of us!
- There are absolutely NO NUTS used in any of the ingredients that go into BVSD food. Nothing is prepared in facilities where peanuts have been prepared. It is a completely NUT-FREE food program. Food Allergen and Nutrition information are available on the Nutrition Services homepage; the address is: http://bvsd.org/food/Pages/default.aspx
- Students can use the money in their lunch account to purchase milk ($0.50), soy milk ($1.25), side salad ($1.00), piece of whole fruit ($0.75) or juice ($0.50). Money can be put on your student's account using cash or check at the school (please write your student's name and lunch account number on the check/envelope), or at www.payforit.net.
- BVSD Nutrition Services is listening! For example, they have heard that students aren't crazy about the macaroni and cheese, so they are working feverishly to improve the recipe. Another thing they've heard is that the hamburger and hot dog buns are kind of dry. Therefore, beginning next week they will be rolling out a new Rudi's Organic Wheat Bun (50% whole wheat) to replace the Rudi's Organic 100% Whole Wheat Buns.
- The pizza on Monday is no ordinary Blackjack pizza. It is specially prepared for BVSD schools with 50% whole wheat crust and lower fat cheese.
- Tastings are going on regularly in the Fireside Cafeteria. ALL students (whether they brought or bought their lunch) are invited to taste new food options during these tastings. Rest assured that students are asked before being served a sample whether or not they have food allergies.
- Coming up in January are three FREE PARENT LUNCH DAYS! Come join your child for a complimentary lunch on January 26, 27, or 28. A parent letter will be distributed explaining how to make a RESERVATION for lunch for one of those days. Reservations will be due by Wednesday, January 13th.
- This new program needs more school lunch eaters in order to survive. Encourage your child to try some of the new choices during the tastings! If you did not receive a calendar menu, please let the kitchen staff know and they will be happy to provide one to you.
A special thank you to Deb and Ann for being so willing to hear our feedback! We look forward to watching this program grow and improve.
