By

Scott Moore,   Matzke Elementary School

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Access to Healthy Foods

During our weekly Boot Camps at the beginning of the year, I introduced smoothies as a healthy alternative. I showed the students how to make smoothies and then gave out samples. We have many new students who joined this year and others from last year who were eager to learn more. Ingredients were purchased from fundraiser money earned the previous year. I spoke to the students about the four major food groups and talked about snacks and sugars. The students came away with great information about snacks and healthy foods. We give monthly awards to students who achieved "Leader of the Pack" status at our school. "Smoothie Party" has been added to the rewards offered to these students on a bi-weekly basis and we will also offer "Smoothie Party" as a reward at special events. The smoothies will be served in the cafeteria during a chosen time and students will assist me in making and distributing the smoothies. I plan to also offer fruit salads after the Christmas break.

How did students and adults work together as a team?

Students have been taught how to make their own smoothies so they can take ownership for what they eat.

How did you accomplish your goals?

My goals were accomplished through lessons and lesson planning, collaboration with the district food service administration, and hands-on instruction.

What improvements have you seen at your school?

Students are eating more healthy and exercising at home and at school more than ever before.