Overview
Orlando Griego and his team manage breakfast and lunch services across the Anaheim district, with the meal pattern set by USDA guidelines. Serving sizes are tailored to different grade levels, so the options available at elementary schools may differ from those at high schools. Each meal undergoes weekly analysis for calories, saturated fats, and sodium content to meet strict standards.
Key Program Details
- Lunch: Includes all five food groups (vegetables, fruits, grains, proteins, and dairy).
- Breakfast: Consists of three main components (grains, fruits, and dairy).
- Portion Control: High school serving sizes are measured at approximately 2 oz.
- Healthy Options: Meals contain no fried foods and no trans fats.
- Vegetable Variety: A variety of vegetables are offered.
- Local Sourcing: The Magnolia Agriscience Community Center (MACC) supplies fresh fruits and vegetables to Loara High School and Dale Junior High School.
- Milk: A 1-cup serving of milk is provided daily.
Interviews with the Staff
What inspired you to choose this profession?
Orlando: “It’s my passion for food and the opportunity to nourish students.”
Tiffany: “I’ve always loved food, especially school nutrition. It’s rewarding to give back to the district where I grew up.”
Can this program be improved?
Orlando: “Absolutely. We’re always looking to improve based on student preferences. For example, a few years back, ramen was very popular, but tastes change. Now, Shake Ramen, which was a hit initially, isn’t as popular. We adapt based on what students want, like replacing carnitas when it fell out of favor. Tiffany works hard to balance student preferences with our purchasing constraints and USDA requirements.”
Are any changes made at the district level?
Orlando: “No, we follow USDA and California Department of Education requirements, which all schools must adhere to.”
Tiffany: “California has additional guidelines that make it even more stringent.”
Do you enjoy the meals you serve, and do you feel the program is doing its best?
Orlando: “Yes, I’ve tried everything on our menu. While I’m a peanut butter and jelly fan, I recognize that the kids’ favorites, like Taconadas, aren’t necessarily my personal picks, but I’d never remove them because they’re so loved.”
Tiffany: “I enjoy our food, too—my favorite is the walking taco! We eat with the students when we’re at the schools, and we’re committed to constantly improving. Ultimately, the student’s feedback matters most.”
Feedback on Flavor
Orlando: “Sometimes students and parents mention that the food ‘lacks flavor,’ often referring to salt. We have strict sodium limits and cannot add extra salt, as required by the USDA and California standards.”
The dedicated team at Loara High School and across the Anaheim district is committed to providing nutritious, balanced meals that meet high standards while listening to students’ preferences. Through continuous improvement and a focus on student satisfaction, they aim to create an enjoyable dining experience that supports students’ health and well-being. Loara High School’s nutrition program remains a collaborative effort, fueled by passion, adaptability, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on students’ lives every day.