Students from the Southside Middle School SPIRIT Program (Student Problem Identification and Resolving Issues Together), as well as members of the student council and staff, were given the opportunity to participate in a taste testing to make recommendations for menu items for lunch next school year.
The process began after Principal LaTanya McNeal met with the student groups to hear their concerns regarding the school menu, including their desire to have a larger selection and variety of menu items. Mrs. McNeal contacted Nichole Jones, director of special programs of food and nutrition services for Aramark (the food service provider for Duval County Public Schools), who obtained approval from the company’s leadership team to have a taste testing.
The event, the first of its kind for both Aramark and Duval County Public Schools, took place in the school’s media center. Students and staff tasted various café entree items and desserts, and then completed a survey of their selections to make recommendations for next school year’s menu. At the conclusion of the event, all students received book bags filled with goodies, compliments of Aramark.
"I greatly appreciate the support of the entire Aramark team for empowering the students at Southside to have a voice in potential menu items for next school year," said McNeal. "Their recommendations will not only impact their school, but all schools in Duval County."
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