Orange County Public Schools is the only district in Florida to achieve this national title in 2010. A District of Excellence is determined after providing comprehensive assessments and evaluations in four key areas to the national School Nutrition Association. The key areas are:
- Administration
- Communications & Marketing
- Nutrition and Nutrition Education
- Operations
Since 2003 under the direction of Lora Gilbert, federal funds supporting Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) have jumped from $25.1 million to $45.9 million in 2008-2009. This means students receive access to programs that supply more fresh fruit and vegetables and those who stay after school have snacks provided.
Food and Nutrition Services (FNS )is also acknowledged for increasing the number of meals served between 2003-2004 and 2008-2009 by 42%. A major strategy is to allow students to “taste test” new foods at an annual fair and select which ones end up on school menus. Recent winners include Asian-inspired dishes, more vegetarian choices, and “home style” cooking.
On the operations end, using central kitchens at larger schools to prepare food and send meals to smaller schools has shown great financial savings. The first year 2005-2006, with one central kitchen serving three smaller, finishing kitchens, the district saved $18,000. In 2008-2009, that savings jumped to $901,443 using four central kitchens and 36 finishing kitchens.
The district is now eligible to apply for the prestigious District of the Year award offering a grant of up to $25,000.
