School Lunch: Justice On The Menu

  Do you remember waiting in line at school for square pizza and chocolate milk? This seemingly everyday ritual holds the key to significant and meaningful change within our education system. Today, we delve deep into the fascinating world of The School Lunch Program and its potential for transformative impact. We're joined by Dr. Jennifer Gaddis, an associate professor at The University of Wisconsin-Madison, known for her compelling research on school food and the systems and politics surrounding it. With over 30 million students participating in school meal programs daily, we explore the historical context and the challenges faced by these programs, such as dealing with stigma, shame, and access to quality nutrition. Furthermore, we touch on environmental justice and the farm-to-school program, spotlighting the importance of fostering strong relationships between local communities, farmers, and the education sector. As we tackle labor issues and financial challenges faced by schools in providing scratch cooking options, we also celebrate the inspiring stories of schools and organizations making positive changes in lunch programs across the nation. Ultimately, Dr. Gaddis encourages us all to participate in the school lunch program, as that is the most likely way to create a system that serves all kids, our environment, and food service workers best.  LINKS: Dr. Gaddis's Book - The Labor of Lunch: Why We Need Real Food and Real Jobs in American Public Schools Dr. Gaddis's NYT Op-Ed - Why Are You Still Packing Lunch for Your Kids? Dr. Gaddis in The Washington Post - Cooking School Lunches from Scratch Can Fix Labor and Supply Issues Dr. Gaddis on Problem Areas with Wyatt Cenac Janet Poppendieck - Free For All: Fixing School Food in America Susan Levine - School Lunch Politics: The Surprising History of America's Favorite Welfare Program Report from 1968 on lunch programs across the country - Their Daily Bread Chef Ann Foundation  Food Corps ACTION STEPS: Talk to your young people about school lun