Students in cafeteria line

The CCHS cafeteria modeled utilizing locally sourced food this week when it served ribs, baked potatoes, macaroni and cheese and broccoli.

Heather Vankleeck, a farm to school consultant for the Kentucky Department of Education, visited the high school during the lunch waves. She observed the methods used by the food services staff, the procedure to serve lunches and saw many students who enjoyed the locally grown food.

“The goal is for every school to have local products on their menu,” Vankleeck said. She visited CCHS to develop ideas and suggestions that can be shared with other school districts.

Not only is the food healthy, but Vankleeck said buying from local farmers also keeps money in the local economy. In many counties, the school district food services department is the biggest consumer.
“Our food service program is a vital part of our school system,” said Carroll County Schools Superintendent Casey Jaynes. “We also value our community partners in providing our team with the opportunity to serve their products to our students.”
Angela Adkins, food service director, has organized offerings like this every month.
“Farm to school day every month is pretty impressive,” Vankleeck said.
Adkins added that, “Food services will be serving local beef in every cafeteria this school year as well so that even our smallest customers will benefit from more home cooked healthier meals.”
In addition, Smart Mouth pizza will make its debut after fall break at our middle and high schools. This will be a freshly made personal pan pizza baked daily for our customers.