School nutrition is more than meals, it’s a movement rooted in community, connection, and the belief that everyone deserves access to wholesome, nourishing food. Maureen sat down with long-time partner and local food systems leader Dave Sokoll , Executive Director of the Forest City Food Collective , to explore how passion, purpose, and people continue shaping local food in schools and beyond. Honoring the OG of Local Food Systems From the moment Dave joins the conversation,

Whether you're a devoted fan of The Bear or not, as child nutrition leaders we often look to fast casual or “food away from home” trends to spark new ideas in our school cafeterias. But just like behind the scenes of The Bear, it’s not all roses and sunshine behind those back-of-house doors.

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.