On an average school day, the “lunch ladies,” as they are affectionately called, prepare 2,225 meals at Polk County’s elementary, middle and high school cafeterias. It’s easy to imagine all that food preparation as an assembly-line production, but at Polk County it’s done with an eye for variety and choice, incorporating local and fresh foods, and with a little educational fun thrown in.

During National Nutrition Month, school lunchroom staff are making an extra effort to educate students and their families about healthy food choices, according to Mary Butler, child nutrition director for the school system, by using the theme of “Savor the Flavor.” Staff members have created colorful bulletin board displays, some of which feature the popular Minion characters, and other displays emphasizing active lifestyles and healthy food choices.

The school system contracts with Marvin’s Produce in Taylors, S.C. for weekly fruit and vegetable delivery, and also relies on the USDA’s Farm to School program, allowing schools to get fruits when in season.

Butler says that pear halves, blueberries, tangerines, strawberries, peaches and bananas are favorites of the children. The USDA program provides applesauce. Kids are required to have at least one fruit at breakfast and at least one fruit and one vegetable at lunch.

Grains are also an important part of the daily menu, according to Jennifer Peeler, food service manager at Polk County Middle School. Whole grain breads and rolls are served with meals and for sandwiches.

The pizza crust is whole grain, but “it took a while to find a whole grain that kids like,” said Peeler. “We had to experiment.” They also serve a popular whole grain chicken quesadilla.

“We also serve a white breast chicken sandwich,” said Peeler. “It costs a little more but they like it.”

Peeler and Butler noted that as they prepare menus, they always keep into account vegetarians and those with other special dietary needs. “Grab-N-Go” bags are a popular alternative, offering other options for kids who might not want the kitchen’s other offerings, and it allows them to eat outside at the picnic tables.