Why School Food Matters

Every child deserves access to the nutrition they need to succeed—and the best place to start is where they are every day: in the school cafeteria. At PataSchool, we see the cafeteria as a vital space where we can address childhood hunger directly. For many students, school meals provide up to 50% of their daily nutrition, making school food one of Indiana’s most powerful tools for hunger relief—accounting for 15% of hunger relief in the state. Each meal is an opportunity to support students’ learning, well-being, and growth.

Reaching Students Where They Are
School food programs like PataSchool reach students where they spend most of their day. For many children, cafeteria meals are the most reliable source of healthy food they receive. Consistent access to these meals allows students to focus on their education without the distraction of hunger, supporting them both physically and mentally throughout the day.

Sustainable, Universal Access to Meals
A defining feature of PataSchool is universal access. Thanks to the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), every child—regardless of their family’s income—receives free or reduced-cost meals. This model is particularly crucial in under-resourced communities where food insecurity is high. The NSLP reimburses schools for each meal, creating a sustainable model that allows schools to support students without added financial strain.

Student-Informed Meal Planning
At PataSchool, we believe that effective school meals reflect students’ nutritional needs, tastes, and cultural backgrounds. By incorporating student feedback and culturally relevant ingredients, we ensure meals are both nourishing and familiar. This thoughtful meal planning, combined with creative recipes, helps students feel connected to what they eat. When kids see ingredients and flavors they recognize, they’re more likely to enjoy their meal, ensuring they receive the full nourishment they need to thrive.

Creating a Foundation for Success
Addressing childhood hunger starts with reliable access to nutritious meals, and schools are uniquely positioned to deliver that access. By reimagining school food, PataSchool creates a supportive environment where students can focus, learn, and grow.