When it comes to wholesome meals fueling healthy lives, local food  plays a big role. In a recent conversation with Ali Guzik , Program Manager for the Cuyahoga County Board of Health and leader of Feed Our Future , we explored how her team connects schools, farmers, and communities to put fresh, local food on students’ trays. What Is Feed Our Future? Feed Our Future is a nonprofit dedicated to inspiring young minds to make mindful choices about what they eat. They connect sc

Get ready to “Taste the World” during National School Lunch Week 2025! From October 13–17, schools can turn their cafeterias into global gateways—complete with student passports, international menus, and cultural celebrations. This fun, educational week helps students explore new cuisines, embrace diversity, and discover how school meals bring the world to their plates.

At Pisanick Partners’ Nutritious Smart Snacks  podcast, we’re all about connecting passion with purpose - and this episode is a shining example. Host Maureen Pisanick sat down with two inspiring women - Terry Thomsen from The Pizza Bagel Lady Company  and Megan McDonald from DoughGo’s - to talk about how their locally made products are transforming school menus and inspiring healthier eating habits for students. From Retail to Purpose-Driven School Nutrition Terry’s journey

In the fast-paced world of school nutrition, menu planning requires more than just meeting regulations—it’s about creating meals students love, optimizing kitchen workflows, and staying within budget. At this year’s Innovation Academy , host Maureen Pisanick  sat down with long-time industry leaders Pam Reitz  and Phyllis Brannon  to talk about fresh product ideas, smart ingredient strategies, and ways to stretch resources without sacrificing quality. Fresh Ideas from the Sho

In the world of school nutrition, balancing flavor, creativity, and cost-effectiveness is no small feat. Recently, Maureen Pisanick sat down with two industry powerhouses— Lola Deer  of Simplot and Holly McGarry  of Acxion—to share practical tips, fresh ideas, and plenty of foodie inspiration for school meal programs. Meet Our Guests Lola Deer  blends Nigerian heritage with Midwestern roots, creating a culinary style she describes as hometown cooking with a West African spice

GFS experts Elena Buist & Chip Gregory share how schools can navigate clean label trends, Buy American compliance, and menu transparency with smart communication and technology.

To make your school meal program run a little easier, here is a simple checklist to help you and your team feel organized and ready when the school year kicks off.

After 34 years in school nutrition, Kelly Minnick  has built more than menus-she’s built a legacy. Known affectionately as the Mother of the Lunchbox , Kelly’s career has been defined by innovation, community partnerships, and a deep commitment to feeding kids well. Recently retired from her role as Director of Painesville City Schools, Kelly joined host Maureen Pisanick  to reflect on her journey, share lessons learned, and inspire the next generation of school nutrition lea

As school cafeterias begin to evolve, one of the most exciting opportunities is the chance to bring the world to the students, right on their lunch trays.