Provo City School District is celebrating National School Lunch Week from Oct. 12–16 with a special theme titled "Cafeteria Circus: Where School Meals Take Center Stage!"
According to a report published Oct. 13, the weeklong event features colorful decorations, circus-themed photo booths, and special menus to celebrate school nutrition programs and the Child Nutrition employees serving students.
The celebration includes specific themed lunch options for each day of the week.
On Monday, Oct. 12, students can choose between pizza croissants or circus corn dogs. Tuesday, Oct. 13, features tumbling tacos or ringleader burgers. Wednesday, Oct. 14, offers spaghetti and cannonball meatballs or pizza labeled as the greatest slice on earth. Thursday, Oct. 15, includes tightrope tacos or a magic muffin meal featuring a scratch-made muffin, string cheese, yogurt, and animal crackers. Friday, Oct. 16, concludes the themed menu with lion tamer pot pie or a big top cheesy dunk consisting of a whole-grain cheese-stuffed breadstick with marinara sauce.
In addition to themed meals, schools are utilizing colorful fruit and vegetable bars to highlight the importance of fresh produce.
Depending on the specific school, students may participate in circus trivia, prize drawings, or Golden Ticket surprises. Elementary schools have been provided with materials for a circus-themed coloring contest. Students are also permitted to wear circus-inspired accessories such as stripes or polka dots if allowed by their school.
The district noted that the celebration is designed for all students, including those who bring lunch from home, to ensure everyone feels included.
The festivities serve to recognize the Child Nutrition teams whose work includes preparing meals, maintaining food safety, and welcoming students through the serving line. While the circus-themed activities will conclude on Friday, Oct. 16, the district noted that the work of feeding Provo students continues throughout the school year.
The district invited students and staff to join the celebration by giving the Child Nutrition teams a round of applause for their efforts.