Lunchtime Solutions Celebrates OHS' Summer Lunch Program

You don't want to miss summer meals at O'Neill Public Schools! Not only do children 18 and younger receive free lunches each weekday, the district's exceptional summer meal program has been recognized by the United States Department of Agriculture with a Silver Level award.

This spring, O'Neill was one of nine summer meal sponsors in the state of Nebraska to be recognized with a “Turnip the Beet” award for its efforts in 2023. It was the first year the district has received this recognition. Only 140 districts were recognized nationwide.

The Turnip the Beet Award was created to showcase sponsors who are going above and beyond to ensure that children in their care are receiving high-quality meals that are both nutritious and appetizing. 

Lunchtime Solutions is the K-12 food service management company that partners with O'Neill to run its food service program.

Food Service Director Jennifer Kaubisch said she is excited to be part of summer meals because it is an important program. “I was an original ‘customer' for a small school district when they started summer feeding programs,” Kaubisch said. “I remember the anticipation and joy of walking to the school to have lunch every day. I even have a photo of me in line to eat. That was a long time ago, but I sure enjoy the memory and now I get to be the one serving the children.”

“We could not be prouder of our schools that are being recognized for their summer meal programs, providing their students with healthy, delicious meals with a little splash of fun,” said Tammy Coyle, Executive Vice President for Lunchtime Solutions. “We are very fortunate to have strong partnerships and support from our customers that allow us to provide successful summer feeding, and being recognized with the Turnip and Beet award makes it extra special for us and our customers.” 

According to the USDA's award criteria, winners showcase their excellence by serving a variety of vegetables and fruits throughout the week; serving whole grains and dairy products; and serving culturally-appropriate meals. 

A height-appropriate fruit and veggie bar for students is stocked with fresh and appealing choices in a rainbow of color each serving day. Students are highly encouraged to take as many fruits and vegetables as they'd like and to come back for more servings. At least two fresh fruits and four fresh vegetables are offered per day. In addition, there is always at least one canned fruit favorite, including applesauce, peaches, and mandarin oranges.

Another important award criteria was the use of student feedback to formulate menus. Kaubisch said the Lunchtime team uses many years of knowledge and production records to decide what items students like the best. They also ask students their feedback as they come through the line and while they are eating, as well as listen to feedback through Food Service Advisory Committees and anonymous surveys during the school year that tell us what students prefer in the lunchroom.

Summer meals are critical in the lives of millions of America's youth, who may not have access to nutritious meals when school meals are not available because school is not in session. However, summer meals are not simply about making sure that those in need have food to eat. In fact, summer meal programs, including the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) and the Seamless Summer Option (SSO) through the NSLP, can positively impact children's growth and development while also encouraging children to develop healthy habits at a young age. High quality summer meals provide energy day-to-day, and help our young people thrive and return ready to learn in the fall.

O'Neill Public Schools Summer Meal Program Information

  These meals are FREE to any child age 18 and younger. Adult meals are $3.00 for breakfast and $5.25 for lunch.

Weekdays: May 20-July 19

Times: Breakfast — 8-8:30 AM, Lunch — 11:30 AM-12:30 PM

Locations: O'Neill Elementary School Commons, 1700 N. 4th St.

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