Step behind the serving line to catch a glimpse of modern-day school meals, and learn about the people who help ensure that America’s students are well-fed and poised for academic success.

From nutrition requirements and statistics to school nutrition success stories and national campaigns, this is everything you need to know about our nation’s school meal programs.

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Key Facts

School Nutrition Standards

To receive federal reimbursements, school meals are required to meet strict nutrition standards, offering a balance of lean protein, whole grains, fruits, vegetables and low- or fat-free milk.

School Meal Statistics

Nearly 30 million students eat school lunch every day. Get more statistics regarding the nation’s school meals programs.

The People Behind School Meals

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School Nutrition Success Stories

Learn how school nutrition professionals and meal programs have made a difference in the lives of America’s students.

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School Nutrition Professionals

From chefs to nutritionists and industry partners to state agencies, learn more about the people who collaborate to ensure school meal programs thrive.

Annual Observances

National School Lunch Week

School lunches are worth celebrating! Learn more about National School Lunch Week (NSLW), commemorated annually in October.

National School Breakfast Week

National School Breakfast Week (NSBW), celebrated annually in March, honors the importance of a nutritious morning meal in fueling students for success.

School Lunch Hero Day

Recognize the impact of school nutrition professionals on School Lunch Hero Day (SLHD), occurring annually on the first Friday of May.

Latest News

SNA News, SNA Publications

SN Magazine: May/June – Every Cafeteria Has a Story

May 7, 2025

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Awards, Press Release, School Lunch Hero Day, SNA News

SNA Recognizes Recipients of National Employee, Manager and Director Awards  

May 2, 2025

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School Lunch Hero Day, SNA News, SNA Publications

SN Plus: Celebrating Our School Lunch Heroes

April 30, 2025

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School Nutrition Magazine

Feature

Little Chefs, Big Lessons

May 7, 2025

School nutrition teams are always finding creative ways to inspire young minds through food. At Warrick County School Corporation, the crew brings students behind the scenes, inviting them into the kitchen for fun, hands-on classes where they roll up their sleeves and cook right alongside the school nutrition team.


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Feature

From Impact to Action

May 7, 2025

When disaster strikes, the strength of a school community is tested in ways no training can fully prepare for. In the aftermath of an unexpected crisis, one district’s leaders, staff and supporters came together to navigate the unknown, support one another and begin the long road to recovery.


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Feature

My Journey to Buying Lunch at School

May 7, 2025

High school senior Nathaniel Teres shares how he worked to improve food allergen labeling for school meals to make his school cafeteria inclusive and safer for students with celiac disease.


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