Over the last several months, Berwyn District 100’s Nutrition & Wellness Committee, which includes students, parents, teachers, a school nurse, food service personnel, physical education staff, health educators, a registered dietician, representatives of the YMCA and Berwyn Recreation Department, and administrators have reviewed past practices and procedures as they relate to nutrition and wellness within our district.  Based on this review, in support of the District 100 Wellness Policy and the new Federal Nutrition guidelines, there have been some changes in our breakfast and lunch programs.  In addition, we have some suggestions for you to help support your child’s health and well-being.

The new Healthier US School Challenge Nutrition Standards focus is on decreasing fat and added sugar, increasing nutrients in food and moderating portion size.  The breakfast and lunch programs will continue to operate as in the past, and will be based on the USDA requirements for nutrient levels balance and food components.  New items will be seen on the menu this year that include more whole grains, lower fat, and new trends targeting healthier choices.  In addition, all ala-carte foods and beverages provided in our schools will not exceed the following:

·         Food or beverage items do not exceed 200 calories each.

·         Total calories from fat do not exceed 30%.

·         Total calories from saturated and trans-fatty acids (combined) do not exceed 10%.

·         Total amount of sugar by weight does not exceed 35%.

Additionally, foods of non-nutritional value, such as carbonated soft drinks (i.e. Coke, Pepsi), candy, potato chips, and pastry type items will be offered to students in school on limited occasions.  Teachers will limit the use of these foods and beverages as rewards and would like you to support your children in not bringing these items to school.

Our Wellness Committee will continue to review our nutrition education and physical education programs and will look at ways to increase physical activity in the classroom.  In addition we would like to support you in helping your child become physically active outside of school.

We have attached a list of suggestions of healthy snacks for your child.  Please let us know if you have any other ideas for healthy snacks.  In addition, we are suggesting that you do not bring in any unhealthy treats for birthdays or any unhealthy fast foods for lunches.

We appreciate your on-going support from home and in the community.  You will hear more information in the upcoming months from school newsletters and other school communications.  We welcome your creative ideas for increasing physical activity and developing healthy eating habits in your children.  Please contact your school principal with any suggestions that you may have for enhancing the well-being of all of our students.