Tyler ISD is celebrating National School Lunch Week Oct. 12–16 by recognizing the students, families and Child Nutrition Services employees who make school meals an important part of each school day. This year’s national celebration, themed “Cafeteria Circus,” shines a spotlight on the creativity, teamwork, and dedication behind school meals.
Each school year, Tyler ISD serves approximately two million lunches and 50,000 gallons of milk to students across the district. On an average school day, Child Nutrition Services serves about 10,800 lunches and 5,800 breakfasts, helping students start their day ready to learn and stay fueled throughout the school day.
Behind those meals is a team of approximately 160 Child Nutrition employees who work each day to prepare, serve, and provide meals for students across Tyler ISD. About 62 percent of students participate in the school lunch program, making school meals an important part of the district’s daily student experience.
“School meals are about so much more than what is on the tray. They give our students the fuel they need to learn, grow, and make the most of their day, and our Child Nutrition team takes great pride in serving meals that students enjoy,” Tyler ISD Director of Food Services Victor Olivares said.
Student feedback plays an important role in shaping Tyler ISD menus. Favorite meals remain on the menu, while less popular items are replaced with new or improved options based on student preferences. Among the most popular choices across the district is Nacho Day.
Breakfast is available at no cost to all Tyler ISD students, making it easier for students to start their day with a nutritious meal. Lunch is free to all elementary students as well as middle school students at Birdwell, Caldwell, and Boulter campuses. Families who may qualify for free or reduced-price school meals are encouraged to complete a meal benefits application. The application helps determine eligibility for free or reduced-price lunches and may also provide access to other benefits for qualifying families.
National School Lunch Week was established in 1962 to highlight the importance of school lunch and its role in supporting students both inside and outside the classroom. Tyler ISD’s celebration provides an opportunity to recognize the Child Nutrition team and the important role they play in helping students learn, grow and thrive each day.
For more information, contact Jennifer Hines at Jennifer.Hines@TylerISD.org.