Welcome to Season 4, Episode 3
One of the biggest misconceptions about school meals is that they’re only meant for children from low-income families. In this episode of “School Food for Thought: The Truth Behind School Meals,” we set the record straight.
Our conversation shines a light on how school meals are designed to serve all students—as a convenient, nutritious and welcoming option that brings kids together around the table. From reducing stigma to offering balanced meals that fuel learning, school meal programs are about much more than food on a tray—they’re about building community and supporting every child’s potential.
Listeners will walk away with a new perspective: School meals aren’t just a safety net; they’re a resource every family can feel good about.
Meet Our Guests
Erin Hysom, Senior Child Nutrition Policy Analyst – FRAC
Erin Kennedy Hysom is a public health dietitian with more than 15 years of experience working across federal nutrition programs. She has supported school meals at the local, state, and federal levels and now serves as a Senior Child Nutrition Policy Analyst for the Food Research & Action Center (FRAC), a national nonprofit dedicated to improving nutrition and fighting hunger.
Michael Francis, Director of School Nutrition Services at Spring Branch ISD
Michael Francis is the Director of School Nutrition Services for Spring Branch ISD in Houston, Texas. With over 16 years in K–12 school nutrition, he has served in districts and regional training and support roles, providing training, technical assistance, and advocacy across the state. Michael is an active leader in the Texas Association for School Nutrition, where he also served as President in 2020–2021.
Dora Rivas, MS, RD, SNS, School Nutrition Specialist
Dora Rivas has been a trailblazer in school nutrition, serving as President of both the Texas Association for School Nutrition and the national School Nutrition Association. She led programs for Dallas ISD and Brownsville ISD, earning national recognition including the Silver Plate Award and the FAME Gold Star Award. A founding member of the Urban School Food Alliance, Dora has worked to improve nutrition and procurement standards nationwide and continues to be a respected voice and mentor in the field.
