Friday Focus
September 29, 2023
SCHOOL NUTRITION NEWSLETTER
Message from the Director
Did you know that at least 1,000 Valpo students are Hispanic? Nationally, one in four children is Hispanic. This month we celebrate the diversity of America's story and are reminded that we are indeed a fascinating blend of cultures. Hispanic Heritage Month is observed September 15 - October 15 honoring the history and contributions of Latinos to our country. We know that some of our most popular menu items are contributions of Hispanic culture. VHS introduced two new menu items during Hispanic Heritage Month and they are each the runaway favorites. Just as it is important for us to tell our story, it is equally important that we get to know the story of our students so we can connect with them. To help meet the needs of this growing group of families, we published a Free and Reduced Price Meal Application with Instructions in Spanish on our website. A huge thank you to Susie who continues to translate for families and staff and to Luda who came to our office after work to help a young Russian mother understand how to apply. Lucy has changed to a substitute position so she can pursue her certificate through Valparaiso University to become a Spanish teacher. Parkview has a very successful Dual Language Immersion program where instruction is in both Spanish and English with the goal of students becoming bilingual. I am very proud of the many ways all of us at VCS make inclusion a top priority.
With gratitude,
Kathy
Ellen Ochoa
1984 USPS
Sonia Sotomayor
Eat like an aztec warrior
The World Health Organization's updated guidelines recommend that carbohydrate intake should come primarily from whole grains, vegetables, fruits and pulses. These fiber rich foods are linked to a remarkable 20% decrease in all-cause mortality, along with a lower risk of heart disease, stroke and Type 2 diabetes. Quinoa is an ancient gluten-free whole grain that has become increasingly popular in recent years. Technically a seed, quinoa has been cultivated for 5,000 years and is native to the Andean region of South America, especially Peru, Bolivia and Chile. Aztec warriors would load up on quinoa before battle for enhanced energy and stamina. Unlike other plant proteins, quinoa is a complete protein that contains all nine essential amino acids. One cup of cooked quinoa contains 8 grams of protein. Quinoa can also be added to pasta, wraps, soups, risotto mixes and baked goods. Use quinoa as a base for grain bowls or mix with your favorite spices and herbs for a side dish.
Thank A Farmer Thursday at Central
stuffed pepper casserole
World School Milk Day
Say Cheese at Memorial
Viking View Reporter
NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH WEEK OCTOBER 9-13
digital resources
OPEN POSITIONS
Non-employees can apply by completing an online application as an External Applicant here: https://www.applitrack.com/valpo/onlineapp/
FS Tech, TJM, 4 hours
FS Tech, BF Middle, 4.5 hours
FS Tech, Central, 4 hours
FS Tech, VHS, 5 hours *new*
FS Tech, VHS, 6 hours *new*
2023-24 Calendar
September 29, 2023 Half Day K-12 (Regular Work Day)
October 16-17, 2023 Fall Break (No Work)
October 26-27, 2023 Half Days K-8 (Regular Work Days)
November 7, 2023 eLearning Day (Regular Work Day)
November 22-24, 2023 Thanksgiving Holiday (No Work)
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https://www.valpo.k12.in.us/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=1221036&type=d&pREC_ID=1455849
About Us
This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
Email: kkane@valpo.k12.in.us
Website: https://www.valpo.k12.in.us/apps/pages/nutrition
Location: 2727 N. Campbell St., Valparaiso, IN 46385
Phone: (219) 531-3050
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ValpoSchoolFood
Twitter: @ValpoSchoolFood