Food & Nutrition Services

Our Mission and Vision

The Food and Nutrition Services Department of Marion County Public Schools is committed to supporting student success by providing healthy, balanced meals every day. We believe good nutrition helps students stay focused, learn more effectively, and perform their best in the classroom. Our mission is to nourish students while helping them build healthy eating habits that last a lifetime.

Elementary student smiling and holding fresh vegetables

Healthy Meals for Student Success

Today’s school meals reflect current K–12 nutrition practices by offering fresh, wholesome, and appealing food choices. Our menus are designed to support both student health and preferences.

Students enjoy:

  • Fresh fruits and vegetables offered daily
  • Whole grain-rich foods
  • A variety of entrée options and freshly-made salads with leafy greens
  • Foods prepared using healthy methods such as baking and roasting
  • Low-fat and whole milk options
  • Age-appropriate portion sizes and reduced sodium choices

All meals meet or exceed federal nutrition standards and are designed to fuel growing minds and bodies.

 Balanced school meal with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and milk

Meal Programs Available

We offer a variety of meal programs to ensure students have access to nutritious food throughout the school year and beyond:

  • School Breakfast Program
  • National School Lunch Program
  • After-school snack and supper programs
  • Summer meal services

Marion County Public Schools participates in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP). This means all students receive breakfast and lunch at no cost, regardless of household income.

Students Eating Lunch in a Cafeteria

Food Safety and Quality

Food safety is a top priority in every school kitchen. All members of our management team are Always Food Safe Certified, and our staff follows strict daily food safety practices to keep meals safe for students.

  • Kitchens are regularly inspected by the local health department
  • Staff receive ongoing food safety training
  • Meals are prepared and served under high safety standards

School nutrition staff following food safety procedures while preparing meals

Our Commitment

At Marion County Public Schools, families and school nutrition professionals work together to support student health and learning. We are proud to provide nutritious meals that help students succeed in the classroom while building lifelong healthy habits.

 

Diverse group of students eating together

 

USDA NON-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT

USDA Nondiscrimination Statement | Food and Nutrition Service

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.