Surprise tuna sandwiches? Mystery meat?
Movies, comics, and public opinion have all reached the consensus that school lunch sucks.
From claims of a mild lack of nutrition to accusations of complete radioactivity, students have mixed opinions. Skyline’s lunch, however, is worthy of a five-star review.
Since 1996, the Issaquah School District has followed Nutrition and Wellness Regulations 6700 and 6700p, assuring families that their students will always receive meals that meet daily food group requirements.
This protocol also sets specific regulations on ingredients, limiting high school students to consuming at most 1280mg of sodium per week and completely eliminating trans fats. These restrictions prioritize student health, as high levels of either ingredient increase risk of heart disease.
But doubts among students arise whether the Skyline kitchen is really keeping its promise.
Student Joanna L. says, “I think online, there are lots of memes and jokes that add to the stigma around American school lunch in general.”
A look behind the scenes at the Cascadia Cafe reveals how Skyline’s lunch staff works to ensure district requirements are met.
When asked about her regular schedule, Head Kitchen Manager Rachel Carlson shared that she usually starts her shift at 5:00 in the morning.
From counting fruits, washing vegetables, and portioning the peanut butter for PB&J sandwiches, the lunch staff at Skyline go to tedious efforts for student benefit.
“We have to make sure that we’re providing what we’re saying we’re providing,” Mrs. Rachel said.
Not only does the Skyline lunch staff meet district regulations, but they genuinely care for students.
When asked about her favorite part of the job, Mrs. Rachel answered without hesitation: the interactions with students.
“There are some kids I know that are going to be late because they’re doing other things. And so we’ll save them what we know they would have got for lunch.”
Despite brief exchanges that last only a few seconds, Mrs. Rachel learns who students are through the choices they make in the lunch line.
Additionally, Skyline’s menu has been growing increasingly more diverse, incorporating various cuisines. Indian Dal, Thai curry, and Japanese Gyoza soup are all dishes that have earned spots on Issaquah School District menus as of recently.
“Next year we’re bringing in a Bulgogi dish as well as a Gyro,” said Mrs. Rachel.
While Skyline may not offer a dish you want right at this moment, the menu is still rapidly expanding to ensure all students recognize and appreciate school lunch.
While controversy may still remain, the wait for school lunch is undeniably long every day. Hungry students rush out of their classes to be first, waiting and impatiently hoping their favorite food is left—at the mercy of the students waiting ahead of them.
A variety of dishes allowing every student to feel seen, a nutritious menu for student health, and a devoted, hard-working staff that genuinely cares for students. What more could Skyline ask for? Without a doubt, I give Skyline’s lunch five stars—and so should you.
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