By

Debra Sension-Hall,   Hellgate Middle School 6-8th

Play:

Topics:

Access to Healthy Foods,  Success with Funds

We used some of our funds to purchase an industrial grade ice shaver. With one hopper of ice, we can make 60 smoothies in 10 minutes. We have had smoothie samplings at break, opened an a la cart smoothie cart for students to get smoothies for a mid-morning snack, and we also conducted smoothie-making demos in Health class. Using a Vitamin blender, students were shown how easy it is to make these healthy snacks at home using fruit, juice, ice, and yogurt. The smoothies are a big hit and students enjoy sampling all the different flavors. We use the profits to fund further healthy food demos in Health class, as well as restocking our "Ramp Up for Recess" carts in each of the three grade level wings.

How do you plan to make this Play last during the school year and beyond?

The smoothies are self-funding and they will help us to continue providing healthy food demos in Health class.

What challenges did you face and how did you overcome them?

We researched a number of different smoothie mix companies and found one that was affordable, had no added sugar, and a variety of flavor options.

What improvements have you seen at your school?

Many kids are eager to get smoothies on smoothie day and are substituting this choice for less healthy options.