Dear Parents/Guardians,
We have received some questions regarding our new breakfast program that includes a new beverage/"coffee" bar at Kirtland High School. In an attempt to address these questions/concerns we have put together the below document to better explain the program. We apologize for any misunderstanding our initial flyer may have caused.
WHAT IS THE NEW BREAKFAST PROGRAM AT KIRTLAND HIGH SCHOOL?
The new breakfast program at Kirtland High School will offer students a healthy start to their day if time didn’t allow them to eat prior to coming to school. A full breakfast costs $1.80. Students eligible for Free or Reduced meals are automatically eligible for breakfast. Reduced price for breakfast is $0.30. Breakfast consists of a full cup of fruit, selections of grains (cereals, whole grain muffins, breads and breakfast bars) or a combination grain/protein item (breakfast sandwich or yogurt parfait), and milk.
WHY A COFFEE BAR?
Kirtland Local Schools received a grant from the American Dairy Association to promote and encourage students to drink more milk. Across the nation, there is growing popularity in a new concept of adding additional flavorings to nonfat milk to create a latte type beverage. These flavorings provide a coffee taste with less than half the caffeine of a cup of regular coffee. They resemble a latte type beverage that became known in the school meal community as Coffee Bars. As a result, students were found to consume milk in greater quantities without additional sugars added.
WHAT BEVERAGES ARE TYPICALLY PROVIDED AND WHAT INGREDIENTS ARE USED?
The foundation of all our “coffee” beverages is a minimum 8 ounces of 100% nonfat milk. The flavorings are sugar-free and plant based. Milk-based beverages are approved by the USDA and the American Medical Association, which oversee the dietary guidelines for the National School Meals Program. All of these beverages provide less caffeine than ½ cup of coffee. In contrast, diet colas and energy beverages contain far more caffeine.
The cost of a 12-ounce beverage is $ 1.50. Larger sizes or extra flavorings will increase the cost. All of these beverages are Smart Snack Compliant and do not exceed the calories, fat or sodium levels under the National School Lunch Program (https://www.fns.usda.gov/school-meals/child-nutrition-programs).
In addition to our milk based “coffees,” we also plan to offer sugar-free/fruit-infused lemonade or teas that provide plenty of hydration without the extra calories. The goal is for students to be well hydrated and drink healthy beverages. We always have bottled water available.
Our new program will also provide smoothies, consisting of milk, frozen and fresh fruit, and yogurt blended with ice. Smoothies provide a full serving of milk, protein and fruit.
WILL HOT COFFEE BE AVAILABLE?
Hot beverages will not be available at the start of the school year. If hot beverages are introduced, they will be lattes comprised of 4 ounces of coffee and 8 ounces of milk. Even with the additional flavorings, the caloric and caffeine content remain low.
PARENTS DO HAVE THE ABILITY TO BLOCK THIS OPTION FOR THEIR CHILD. A block can be placed on your child’s account to prevent the sale of these beverage options to your child. Parents also can set additional preferences on an account, including dollar limits per day or no ala carte purchases. Contact the high school manager – Krista Hupp at krista.hupp@kirtlandschools.orgor Jeni Lange at [email protected] or 440-974-5227
If you have any further questions please contact your building principal or me.
Sincerely,
Jeni Lange
Director of Food Service