Students eating lunch in Ottumwa are no longer using disposable trays and plasticware.
According to Yvonne Johnson, Director of Food & Nutrition Services, the transition to red trays is complete. It's been 20 years since the program used trays and silverware that required daily washing. The switch was the result of a survey done last spring, as well as a recommendation from the Food Service Advisory Committee. "Students love it," she said. "There has been a positive reaction to it."
The change to washable dishes is part of the Be The Best initiative that is impacting the entire district. Changes in the food service program include:
- All students have a choice between two entrees daily
- Expanded breakfast service that includes an option for cold or hot daily
- Fresh fruit and vegetables daily at Evans and OHS in addition to the regular menu
Another change, implemented the end of October, was providing a cold lunch to OHS students leaving at 12:30 on Fridays. "We want to ensure all students have convenient access to a meal," Johnson said.
And Johnson said more changes are coming. "We are currently bidding for new equipment to continue to improve our operation across the district," she said.