IRMO – Lexington-Richland School District Five schools joined the nationwide celebration of the National School Lunch Program from October 13–17, 2025. Serving nearly 30 million children each day, the program provides nutritious meals that fuel learning and growth.
This year’s theme, “Taste The World: Your School Lunch Passport,” encouraged students to explore global flavors while learning about the importance of healthy meals.
“School lunches offer students fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and milk, all while meeting federal nutrition standards limiting fat, calories, and sodium,” said Student Nutrition Coordinator Shana Catoe. “National School Lunch Week helps us educate parents and students about the many benefits of our lunch program.”
The celebration included a hands-on experience for students when Columbia Mayor Daniel Rickenmann, Superintendent Dr. Akil E. Ross Sr., and Chief Operations Officer Dr. Gerald Gary served lunches at Harbison West Elementary School on October 15.
“It was a lot of fun to put on an apron, hairnet, and gloves to help feed our students,” Dr. Ross said. “Nourishing our students with a healthy, balanced meal supports their growth—academically and personally. Well-fed kids are more focused, more engaged, and ready to succeed in the classroom. National School Lunch Week reminds us that nutritious meals fuel both bodies and minds.”
The federally funded National School Lunch Program (NSLP) has been serving students for 79 years. Families can learn about meal prices for the 2025–2026 school year, menu options, and free or reduced-price meal eligibility on the District Five Student Nutrition page.
The “Taste The World: Your School Lunch Passport” campaign is made possible by the School Nutrition Association. Parents and students can follow the week’s activities on social media with hashtags #NSLW25, #TastetheWorld, and #SchoolLunch.
For more information, visit: School Nutrition Association – NSLW.
SIDEBAR: Healthy Meals at School
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Fruits & Vegetables: Daily servings for balanced nutrition
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Whole Grains: Provide energy for learning and play
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Low-Fat Dairy: Supports bone growth
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Nutrition Standards: Meals meet federal limits on fat, calories, and sodium
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Fun & Educational: National School Lunch Week encourages students to try new foods from around the world
