Utica Community Schools Food and Nutrition Services department has been honored nationally for innovation.

The department has earned the Innovation in Nutrition Award from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service.

UCS provides students more than three million meals annually. 

The award is provided to school districts that implement nutritional activities that create connections between the cafeteria, the classroom, community and home.

“This award demonstrates the vital role our food service team plays in the success of our students,” said Superintendent Robert Monroe. “The Food and Nutrition Services Department remains committed to making sure our students have the nourishment they need to focus on their learning.”

In UCS, these activities include:

• Introducing fruits and vegetables that students may not have tried before, such as figs, candy cane beets, or kumquats.
• Serving items that feature whole grain and have lower sugar and fat than items found at grocery stores.
• Posting regular information on the department’s social media sites from Registered Dietitian Vinnie Kape. He also visits classrooms to promote healthy eating habits.
• Involvement in the district’s annual family wellness fair.

 “We are excited to bring new food and new healthy experiences for our students, staff, and the community,” said Food and Nutrition Services Director Mandy Sosnowski. “We love introducing things to students they may have never heard of or  tried before and then being able to explain how they can be part of a healthy lifestyle.   We are fortunate to partner with some amazing educators as well to help keep the healthy message alive in the classroom as well as the cafeteria.”

Robe Bisceglie, executive officer and president for Action for Health Kids, said: “The recognition awards are an opportunity to showcase innovative school nutrition practices that provide children with access to nutritious school meals.”