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Push for healthier MPS lunches gains traction

Posted at 9:58 PM, Sep 05, 2017
and last updated 2017-09-05 23:32:44-04

A push for healthier lunches for MPS students has gained traction.  Teachers, students, parents and the Hunger Task Force are working to get students better breakfast and lunch.

"We're asking for fresh fruit, well prepared vegetables, not processed and high sugared food that we see every day," said Kim Schroeder, Milwaukee Teachers Education Association President.

The group said they're fighting for quality food.

"For many of our students this is the only meal they get during the day is one that they receive at school," said Schroeder.

A petition for better lunches, started by an MPS mom, helped push the idea forward. 

"It's just turned into this major thing," said Rebecca Adamietz.

The petition calls for a couple things.

"All these kids should be served healthy meals with dignity.  And you know a better plate presentation so we're really looking to get some trays in there instead of the paper boats that they're eating off of right now," said Adamietz.

A school board member listened and drafted a resolution working towards those requests. 

"It's just the right thing to do.  Our students are worth it," said Schroeder.

Last month the district said, "Milwaukee Public Schools meets all federal nutrition standards for the meals we serve. The district is also a long-time supporter of the Farm-to-School movement, with our support of and participation in this effort dating back 15 years. We also work closely with a student advisory council to design meals that are not only nutritious but delicious."

The resolution will be introduced Tuesday, September 12 during a school board committee meeting.