Equity in School Meals: Planning for Culturally Diverse & Inclusive Menus

One of the ways culture is expressed is through the foods we eat and that could include school meals. It is important for school meals to include foods that reflect the cultural and religious demographics of your school community. Offering more diverse and culturally appropriate school meals is a great way to connect with your students and show them you understand and celebrate who they are. It can also be a great way to increase participation. Focusing on cultural preferences can help to improve access by catering to the flavors of your audience.

This webinar features dynamic leaders who share their experiences planning culturally diverse and inclusive menus by connecting with their school community first and often. This webinar covers how to connect with students and families to learn what they like to eat; recipes that kids like; how to get started offering culturally diverse and inclusive menus; and more!

Speakers:

• Frances Montoya-Gatewood, Director of Food Services at Vaughn Next Century Learning Center (San Fernando, CA)
• Shannon Reina, Food Service Manager at Salt River Schools (Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community, AZ)
• Bettina J. Applewhite, MS, RDN, LDN, SNS; Nutrition Consultant, Recipe Developer, School Nutrition Specialist
• Peter Fu, Chef/Training Developer, Office of Food and Nutrition Services, New York City Department of Education
• Kelley Bacci, Training Developer, Office of Food and Nutrition Services, New York City Department of Education