Government officials feel that school lunches have gotten fattier and greasier over the years. Now, congress wants to make some changes.

The Agriculture Department was given legislation by the Senate Agriculture Committee to create new standards for school lunches, such as less candy in the vending machines, pizza made with whole wheat-crust and low-fat mozzarella, and desserts with fewer calories.

Kettle Run’s cafeteria is one step ahead of the government. Manager Kay Stone said the staff has made changes to make the menu healthier. “We are serving whole-grain, also some reduced fat items will be available.” The burgers are also made with soy.

Making the pizza with whole grain has not impacted the taste. According to librarian Kim Ritter, when they took samples of the school pizza to local events, the public preferred our special pizza to local pizza restaurants such as Jerry’s Subs and Pizzas, Dominoes and Pizza Hut.

There are also changes the cafeteria plans to make. “We are planning on baking a lot more items. The only items we will have to fry are french fries and hash browns,” Stone explained.

Faculty and staff members appreciate the changes being made, and enjoy the variety offered.

“I like to look at the specials, holiday meals, and the soups are good; I also like the pizza.” said librarian Kim Ritter.

Although Ritter enjoys the variety, there are a few additons she would like to see.

“I think that an expanded salad bar and vegetarian entrees would help, just something
that doesn’t have a meat element in them,” Ritter explained, “but I think that the Cafeteria is doing a good job with the stuff that they are allowed to buy.”

Sophomore Jake Tackas agreed. “I would like to see more of a variety in fruit and vegetables,” Tackas said.

However, there are others who prefer less healthy choices. “I would like to see funnel cakes, more tacos, and regular hamburgers,” Neil McDonald said.

Whatever changes are in store, there is one item that English teacher DeJuanna Parker does not want to see changed. “The chicken salad is da’ bomb,” Parker exclaimed.