Over the summer, the SHS cafeteria kitchen was upgraded with new equipment; subsequently, students are noticing more menu options and fresher food choices. Popular items such as tomato pesto paninis, gyros, and California chicken sandwiches are attracting attention among the student body. Commenting on the notable improvements to the food program, senior Sam Allard praised the cafeteria staff: “They are doing a great job branching out. It’s easy to get tired of it when you eat the same things every week.”
SPS food services director Patrick Legare also credited the hard-working cafeteria staff, noting that his favorite addition to the lunch selection is fresh homemade pizza served daily. Legare explained that the new equipment allows the cafeteria staff to produce more food in-house, including pizza and other cultural cuisine, including Italian and Mexican specialties. Recently, the staff prepared 80 lbs. of taco meat for the popular Nacho Bar.
The USDA and the Massachusetts State government extended their free lunch program through the school year, allowing all students to have one free meal every day. However, this benefit does not extend to the snack line. This year, fruit snacks are $2.50, and the cost of everything, including chips and cookies, was increased. Legare explained, “The snack prices have nothing to do with the school lunch program. They are required to be sold by the state at a percentage profit.” Legare said they held off raising the snack prices for as long as possible, but rising costs and inflation have forced them to increase the prices.
Junior Will Hartwell eats school lunch nearly every day. He is thrilled with the latest additions to the cafeteria menu, commenting, “Those gyros were incredible. I think they stepped up their game this year.” Hartwell is not alone in his opinion. Several students agreed with his assessment: “From the variety to the overall taste of the food, there has been a change, and it’s definitely for the better.”