This Albany County district formerly used a central kitchen that prepared meals for five schools. The food was delivered to each school on a truck and students went through the traditional cafeteria-style serving line. Often the food was less than hot when served and student participation was low, Marco said. Another way schools are increasing student participation in their meal programs is offering ethnic dishes that are popular with different segments of the student population. Several years ago, the USDA approved salsa as a vegetable in the nation's school lunch program, at the request of food industry and school lunch officials in the South and Southwest, according to Education Daily .
Many schools now offer brand-name fast foods to get students to come to the lunchroom.
Consumer advocates say fast food in the lunchroom sends the wrong message. Selling pouring rights for soft drinks is another school practice that infuriates some critics. D.C. However, New York Education Law prohibits schools from serving soda during lunch time. More than a meal Some school districts are focusing on the social aspect of school meal times. In the Afton School District in Chenango County, senior citizens from the community have lunch at the high school once a week.