The Catoosa County Schools Child Nutrition Program is not just a "filling station". It is an integral part of the educational system. The Child Nutrition Coordinator, as well as school cafeteria managers and their staffs see mealtime as an opportunity to integrate nutritious, well-balanced, low-cost meals with educational objectives. All cafeteria managers take classes in nutrition, quantity food preparation, management, food safety, and sanitation. Each cafeteria employee receives specialized training in food production and service.

Students learn what constitutes a well-balanced meal by observing the many selections offered each day. Menus are planned to incorporate recommendations from the new USDA Myplate and include a choice of entrees; several fruits and vegetables, from which students may select as many as four; breads and cereals - often whole grain; and a selection of milk. For more information on USDA's MyPyramid, go to http://www.myplate.gov. This site is interactive and provides recommendations based on information submitted by the individual. There is also a site for children which includes a "Blast Off" game. In order for the child's rocket ship to leave the platform, it has to be fueled with the correct amount and type of food from the pyramid.

Because the system is a participant in the National School Lunch Program, qualified students may receive the same meal at a free or reduced price. If household income changes during the school year, applications may be made immediataly to receive meals at the lower rates. Interested parties should contact the Child Nutrition Department at 706-965-2414. All information is confidential.

In accordance with the Federal Law and the United States Department of Agriculture Policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on thebasis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write to: USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room326-W Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Ave. SW, Washington DC 20250-9410 or call (202) 720-5964 (Voice & TDD). USDA is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer.