Central School gets national nutrition nod

Central School in Whitefish made it happen in national nutrition circles recently.

The school is one of four from Montana whose school nutrition programs are featured in "Making It Happen - School Success Stories."

It is a publication of the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The government agencies highlight 32 schools across the nation which have taken steps to increase availability of healthy foods outside school meal programs.

Other Montana schools recognized are East Middle School in Great Falls, Ennis Public Schools, Ronan Public Schools and Bozeman High School.

Different approaches to improving the nutritional content of foods available in school are described in the publication.

Whitefish was recognized in particular for make more healthful foods and beverages available.

Central School has made substantial changes over the past three years, including replacing vending-machine soft drinks with bottled water and 100 percent juices.

The school also removed candy from vending machines and a la carte sales, and there is no candy available for sale to students during school hours.

Central's Parent Teacher Association bought a vending machine for the school's food service program. It is stocked daily with milk, yogurt, pudding, string cheese, beef jerky, baked chips and fruit.

On the a la carte line, students now can choose homemade pretzels, bagels, salads, sandwiches, baked chips and fresh fruit.

Two years ago, the school swapped lunch and recess times so students now have recess before eating. Teachers have noted marked improvement in afternoon academics.

The publication also outlines specifics of various school programs. Whitefish's a la carte ideas, parental leadership and an increase in revenue were noted.

"You cannot put a price on the benefits of good nutrition," Central Principal Kim Anderson is quoted in the publication.

"I have supported these changes in our school nutrition environment because I believe that this could be the missing link to a better learning environment and improved academic achievement," Anderson said. "If we want our kids to do better on a regular basis, we need to offer them healthier choices."

Reporter Nancy Kimball may be reached at 758-4483 or by e-mail at nkimball@dailyinterlake.com