Welcome to Season 4, Episode 2
It’s one of the most common questions parents ask: Are school meals really healthy? In this episode of “School Food for Thought: The Truth Behind School Meals,” we tackle that head-on.
We explore the rigorous nutrition standards guiding today’s cafeterias, standards that shape everything from sodium levels to the number of whole grains and fresh produce on a tray. Listeners will learn how school nutrition programs balance health and taste, what’s changed over the years, and why these meals are often more nutritious than what’s brought from home.
At its core, this conversation is about trust and transparency. School meals don’t just meet regulations—they fuel student success, build healthy habits and open doors to better learning.
Meet Our Guests
Mark Oswalt, MS, RDN, Director, Mead SD, Washington
Mark Oswalt is the Assistant Director of Nutrition Services for the Mead School District in eastern Washington, where he’s been shaping child nutrition programs for over a decade. A registered dietitian with a Master of Science in Nutrition and Exercise Physiology from Washington State University, Mark combines his love for food and science to create meal programs that are both healthy and student-focused.
Mary Ellen Gilliam, MBA, SNS, MSD of Wayne Township
Mary Ellen Gilliam serves as the Assistant Director of Child Nutrition for MSD Wayne Township in Indianapolis, IN. With more than 18 years of experience across restaurants, hospitals, and K–12 programs, she brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her role. A proud Purdue graduate and MBA holder, Mary Ellen believes that child nutrition is where her passion meets purpose.
Linette Dodson, PhD, RD, SNS, FAND, Deputy Superintendent of School Nutrition at Georgia Department of Education
Dr. Linette Dodson is the Deputy Superintendent of School Nutrition at the Georgia Department of Education. With more than 20 years of leadership in school nutrition, including nearly two decades as a local director, she is recognized nationally for her contributions to child nutrition. In 2023, she received the Big Voices for Children Award for her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, underscoring her commitment to fueling Georgia’s future with quality school meals.
