Every school meal starts with the same goal: feed kids well. But creating healthier school environments takes more than simply putting better food on the tray.
In this episode of Cafeteria Confessions, we sit down with Nancy Easton, founder and executive director of Wellness in the Schools, to look at the bigger picture of child nutrition. Nancy shares what she has learned from two decades of working with schools to expand scratch cooking, train school food staff, introduce students to new foods, and make physical activity part of the conversation around student health.
We also dig into the systemic barriers that make change so difficult, from limited funding and outdated infrastructure to procurement restrictions, staffing challenges, and the need for stronger policy. And with examples from New York City and the 200 districts participating in ScratchWorks, Nancy shows what can happen when districts, community partners, and policymakers work toward the same goal.
Because feeding kids well isn't just about what's on the tray. It's about building a system that makes healthier choices possible.
Want to learn more about Wellness in the Schools and their resources? Visit wellnessintheschools.org.
Cafeteria Confessions
Welcome to Cafeteria Confessions! Join our host, Emily Chatelain, CEO and Founder of School Food and Wellness Group, as she kicks off our new podcast dedicated to school nutrition and wellness. In this debut episode, we introduce the show’s mission: to celebrate the leaders and innovators devoted to serving healthy meals and enhancing student success. Each episode will feature insights from experts in school nutrition and education who are making a real difference in schools across the country.
At School Food and Wellness Group, we’re committed to building sustainable meal programs that go beyond feeding students. Our programs are crafted to educate and inspire students, empowering them to make healthy choices for life. Working in school food is often a tireless and unsung role, and this podcast aims to honor those who go above and beyond to nourish students with understanding and dedication. Cafeteria Confessions will bring you the voices and stories that remind us why student wellness matters.
Subscribe now, and don’t miss a single inspiring episode!