Students can expect a few menu changes once the 2019–2020 school year gets underway.
Beginning this September, public schools in NYC will institute a Meatless Mondays menu, which will feature vegetarian breakfast and lunch options. (Have picky eaters on your hands? No sweat: Check out our favorite lunch box ideas if the kiddos aren't keen on this change.)
Mayor Bill de Blasio and Schools Chancellor Richard A. Carranza revealed the plans on Monday, Mar 11, and noted that this effort intends to promote healthy eating habits and environmentally friendly practices. “Meatless Mondays are good for our students, communities and the environment,” Schools Chancellor Richard A. Carranza said in a statement. “Our 1.1 million students are taking the next step towards healthier, more sustainable lives. Our students and educators are truly leaders in this movement, and I salute them!”
Next school year (2019–20), NYC’s 1.1 million public school students will be able to lead healthier lives on a greener planet thanks to the citywide expansion of our Meatless Mondays breakfast and lunch program! Learn more: https://t.co/i0tcbrlxQ8 pic.twitter.com/Enyzd8na2o
— NYC Public Schools (@NYCSchools) March 11, 2019
There's no doubt about it: Success in the classroom and participation in after-school programs can be attributed to a healthy diet, though there is some debate as to what constitutes a proper meal. The Mayor's office revealed that this is a national movement, and 15 Brooklyn schools piloted Meatless Mondays back in 2017. Now they're rolling out the plan across the five boroughs with a few goals in mind.
“Cutting back on meat a little will improve New Yorkers' health and reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” Mayor Bill de Blasio said in a statement. “We're expanding Meatless Mondays to all public schools to keep our lunch and planet green for generations to come.”
What are your thoughts on the change? For those who would like to express their comments or concerns, you can consider doing so in the NYC School Survey. If you're curious about healthy habits for your youngsters, have a look at our favorite fitness classes for kids in NYC.
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