BROKEN BOW, NE – The summer meal program at Broken Bow Public Schools, which provides lunches for children 18 and younger for free each weekday, has once again been recognized by the United States Department of Agriculture with a Silver Level award.
This spring, Broken Bow was one of nine summer meal sponsors in the state to be recognized with a “Turnip the Beet” award for its efforts in 2023. It was the second year the district received the recognition. Only 140 districts were recognized nationwide.
The Turnip the Beet Award was created to showcase sponsors who are going above and beyond to ensure that children in their care are receiving high-quality meals that are both nutritious and appetizing.
Lunchtime Solutions is the K-12 food service management company that partners with Broken Bow to run its food service program. Food Service Director Ryndi Keezer runs the summer meal program with Kitchen Manager Michaella Olson.
“Our summer feeding program is a great opportunity for any child in Broken Bow and surrounding areas to come and eat a hot meal during the summer when parents are busy working,” Keezer said. “Michaella and I love seeing all the happy faces throughout the summer.”
Broken Bow Superintendent Darren Tobey said the district is lucky to have Michaella and Ryndi here helping serve.
According to the USDA’s award criteria, winners showcase their excellence by serving a variety of vegetables and fruits throughout the week; serving whole grains and dairy products; and serving culturally-appropriate meals.
A height-appropriate fruit and veggie bar for students is stocked with fresh and appealing choices in a rainbow of color each serving day. Students are highly encouraged to take as many fruits and vegetables as they’d like and to come back for more servings. At least one fresh fruit and three fresh vegetables are offered per day. In addition, there is always at least one canned fruit favorite, including applesauce, peaches, and mandarin oranges.
Another important award criteria was the use of student feedback to formulate menus. Wright said the Lunchtime team uses many years of knowledge and production records to decide what items students like the best. They also ask students their feedback as they come through the line and while they are eating, as well as listen to feedback through Food Service Advisory Committees and anonymous surveys during the school year that tell us what students prefer in the lunchroom.
“We could not be prouder of our schools that are being recognized for their summer meal programs, providing their students with healthy, delicious meals with a little splash of fun,” said Tammy Coyle, Executive Vice President for Lunchtime Solutions. “We are very fortunate to have strong partnerships and support from our customers that allow us to provide successful summer feeding, and being recognized with the Turnip and Beet award makes it extra special for us and our customers.”
Summer meals are critical in the lives of millions of America’s youth, who may not have access to nutritious meals when school meals are not available because school is not in session. However, summer meals are not simply about making sure that those in need have food to eat. In fact, summer meal programs, including the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) and the Seamless Summer Option (SSO) through the NSLP, can positively impact children’s growth and development while also encouraging children to develop healthy habits at a young age. High quality summer meals provide energy day-to-day, and help our young people thrive and return ready to learn in the fall.
Broken Bow Public Schools Summer Meal Program Information
FREE to any child age 18 and younger. Adult meals are $5.00
Weekdays: June 3 – July 31 (except July 4)
Time: Noon-12:30 PM
Where: North Park Elementary, 1135 North H St.
