Portion sizes are based on calorie requirements set by the USDA. Our menus are developed by grade level (K-5, 6-8, & 9-12) using USDA standards.

We have received feedback that children are receiving different portion sizes at lunch. This may be due to utilizing two different products during meal service. For example, one product may require 5 pieces of chicken to meet the serving size, while another product may require 10 pieces of chicken to meet the serving size. While we do our best to utilize one specific product during meal service, supply chain issues have forced us to utilize what we are able to receive.

We are aware that last-minute menu changes create challenges for students with special dietary needs. Our team does our best to update the Nutrislice menu on the Parkway website when a change has to be made based on supply chain issues, inclement weather, etc. These changes are made on a weekly basis- so we recommend checking the menu at the beginning of the week vs. the beginning of the month. However, there are times when changes are made at the last minute due to unforeseen circumstances, such as delayed delivery of a specific product. When this happens, each individual school should be notified. At this time, we do not have a way to notify parents of last-minute (day of service) changes, so our team will contact the principal’s secretary and the school nurse.

View your Nutrislice menu here: https://parkwayschools.nutrislice.com/menu/

A school that is 'serve only' gives every component to every student purchasing a reimbursable meal.

A school that practices 'Offer Vs. Serve' offers every component to students as part of a reimbursable meal, but students are allowed to reject up to 2 components and still have a reimbursable meal. For a reimbursable meal, a student must take at least one serving of fruit or vegetable and 2 other components. We are practicing offer vs. serve in the Parkway school district, apart from “breakfast bags” and PK meals.

Why participate in Offer Vs. Serve?

The purpose of offer vs. serve is to reduce plate waste and allow students a choice in what they wish to have for breakfast and lunch. However, the student may take every component offered.

If your child is leaving lunch feeling hungry, encourage them to take all five components to satisfy their appetite!

Fruits, vegetables, grains, meat/meat alternatives, and milk are the five components of a meal. Meat & Meat Alternates include but are not limited to meat, poultry, fish, cheese, yogurt, beans, eggs, peanut butter or other nut or seed butter, and nuts and seeds.

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