School Lunch Nutrition Guidelines

Lunches that Inspire and Support the Child at School

Austin Montessori School recognizes the importance of healthy nutrition for children. Our policy is intended to clarify which foods are acceptable to bring to school, and those that are best kept for home and other settings. Children often do not require large amounts of food, so we want to ensure that what they do eat is wholesome, organic (if possible), as “close to the vine” as possible, and enticing. We also want children to eat food at school that is reflective of their cultural and ethnic norms. This not only serves to provide a bridge between home and school but exposes other children to different types of cuisine. Children, as they are growing in all areas of their development, are growing in their acceptance of new foods as they cultivate a palate that allows a wide range of foods, tastes, and textures, and our school’s guidelines aim to support this. Essentially, we aspire towards creating a culture towards food and nutrition where each child and adolescent feels empowered to make Every Bite Count.

As recommended by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HSS), Austin Montessori School supports the following framework in our approach to food and nutrition:

• Follow a healthy dietary pattern at every stage of life. As such, our staff also follow the same guidelines in what they bring to lunch so they can model their food choices.
• Customize and enjoy nutrient-dense foods and beverages to reflect personal preferences, cultural traditions, and budgetary considerations.
• Focus on meeting food group needs with nutrient-dense foods and beverages, staying within calorie limits.
• Limit foods and beverages high in added sugar, saturated fats, and sodium.

Below you will find our policy and guidelines on school lunches.