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Back-to-Scratch: nourishing meals for our Rangers
Ranger Food service is excited to bring back our Back-to-Scratch initiative for this school year! Cassopolis Public Schools believes that all students deserve access to healthy food. Our Back-to-Scratch breakfasts and lunches are part of our commitment to providing our students with fresh, nutritious, and delicious meals daily.
Our Back-to-Scratch meals are prepared in the Ranger kitchen with fresh, wholesome ingredients. This is a significant change from traditionally prepared school meals that rely heavily on pre-packaged and frozen foods. With scratch made meals, parents can feel good about the quality of the meals their students are eating.
Scratch breakfasts and lunches are offered at least three days each week. All Back-to-Scratch meals are indicated on the school lunch menu with an “SM” next to the item. In addition to the main dish item, students always have alternative options available like yogurt, PBJ, sub sandwiches and salad bar.
It’s important for students to develop healthy eating habits at a young age that will last a lifetime. We know students may be hesitant to try new foods, so we offer the opportunity to sample new recipes and give feedback on their likes and dislikes. We hope parents will encourage their students to experiment and try the meals that are unfamiliar to them. They just may discover their new favorite!
Here are some tips to encourage your student to give our breakfasts and lunches a try:
-Look over the menu options together. Visit our menu page and talk with your child about what options are available each day.
-Pack a small side dish as back up. Your child may feel more comfortable ordering a new lunch if they know they have the option to eat something from home along with it.
-Talk with your child about school meals. Ask them what they liked and didn’t like, let them know that it’s safe to experiment.
-Promote healthy eating habits at home. Set a good example at home by offering fruits and vegetables and limiting processed foods.
-Be patient and understanding. It may take time for your child to warm up to school meals. Start small and continue to encourage them to expand their palette.
We are excited to offer fresh, wholesome food to our students and are committed to providing our students with the best possible dining experience. Healthy food is essential for student success and we love nothing more than to see our students enjoying the food we’ve prepared. We believe that students will come to appreciate the taste and quality of fresh, home-cooked meals and that the Back-to-Scratch initiative will make a positive difference in the lives of our students.
Be sure to visit our Food Service Page to see our latest menu!