Nutritional Services Blog
Our schools are taking big steps to bring more fresh, local foods to students, and we’re excited to share what’s new on the menu. This year, we’ve added K4 Ranches beef from Prescott, Oatman Farms organic heirloom grain sourdough bread, and Ramona Farms organic wheatberries, all grown or raised right here in Arizona. These ingredients not only taste great, but they also help us support the farmers and ranchers in our own communities.
Local Beef with Local Pride
K4 Ranches has become one of our favorite new partners. Their high-quality, responsibly raised beef gives us a delicious and reliable option for school meals. Choosing beef that’s raised just up the road means fresher food for students and support for Arizona ranching families. We currently serve K4 all beef hot dogs and plan to use K4 ground beef after Winter Break in a few select menu items.
Heirloom Sourdough Students Can Feel Good About
We are also thrilled to serve sourdough bread from Oatman Farms out of Gila Bend, AZ. Made with heirloom grains grown on their certified organic farm, and baked with care, this bread is full of flavor and nutrients. It’s a simple switch that brings students closer to real, wholesome food. Look for this sourdough to be available on specialty sandwiches in the MS/HS menu, including the Turkey Avocado Club served in December. We will be exploring more Oatman Farms products, coming to all cafeterias soon!
Celebrating Indigenous Foods with Ramona Farms Wheatberries
Ramona Farms, located on the Gila River Indian Reservation, grows traditional Indigenous crops that have been part of this region for generations. Their wheatberries will be showing up in salads, grain bowls, and side dishes. These foods help students explore new flavors while honoring the cultural history of our area. We are excited to add wheatberries to a special berry parfait in December and are working to develop some side items and grain bowls with this amazing product.
Fresh, Local Produce Every Week
Along with these new ingredients, we are also adding more locally grown fruits and vegetables to our fresh offerings. Depending on the season, students might enjoy Arizona-grown citrus, apples, greens, squash, microgreens, and more. When produce comes from nearby farms, it’s fresher, tastes better, and supports the growers who help feed our communities.
Fun Fact: Arizona is the winter vegetable capital, and our local list just grew by leaps and bounds!
Why Local Matters
Bringing in more local foods has big benefits:
- Fresher meals that taste better and fuel students throughout the day
- Support for Arizona farms and ranches
- Fun learning opportunities about where food comes from
- A stronger connection between our schools and our community
Looking Ahead
We’re excited to continue growing our farm-to-school partnerships! Working with local businesses like K4 Ranches, Oatman Farms, Ramona Farms, and local produce growers helps us offer meals that are nutritious, delicious, and proudly Arizona-grown.
Local foods don’t just fill our plates, they help us celebrate the land, the people, and the traditions that make our community special.
By: Amber Howell, Dietetic Intern
If you’re anything like me, you may not realize how much planning, nutrition science, and teamwork go into every school meal. As a dietetic intern nearing the end of my four-week rotation with Scottsdale Unified School District Nutrition Services, I’ve had the opportunity to see this process up close, and I was genuinely surprised. I’d like to share what I’ve learned so parents, teachers, and staff can better understand how the system provides healthy, balanced meals and how we can all support children’s food choices both in and out of school.
One of the most striking takeaways from this rotation is that school meals aren’t just ‘regular cafeteria food.’ They must follow strict federal nutrition standards set by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Each meal includes all five major food components: fruits, vegetables, grains, lean protein, and low- or nonfat milk. Meals must also meet specific limits for calories, fat, and sodium. Even snacks sold outside of the main meal, such as à la carte items or vending machine options, must comply with the USDA’s Smart Snacks in School standards, which limit calories, sugar, and saturated fat. As a result, snacks available in school cafeterias are often far more nutritious than those found in convenience stores or grocery stores.
SUSD takes these standards a step further and follows their own Healthy Menus Nutrition Initiative, which was created in 2017 in partnership with a parent group, as a pledge to make their meals even healthier. These are:
- No MSG
- No High Fructose Corn Syrup
- No Artificial Dood Dyes
- No BHT/BHQ (with the exception of pepperoni)
- No TBHQ
- Nearly Nitrite and Nitrate free
- A la carte snacks not to exceed 13g added sugar
Select SUSD sites also participate in the USDA’s Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP). This program provides fresh fruits and vegetables outside of regular meal options. Schools offer these snacks at least twice a week to stay in the program, and teachers educate on nutrition and fun facts about the produce the program provides that day. This gives students the chance to learn about and try produce they may not have been exposed to, like sun gold kiwis or beets. Exposure helps students build curiosity about food and supports lifelong healthy habits.
In other words, when students get their lunch at school, it’s the result of careful planning to provide balanced, healthy options.
During my time with SUSD, I’ve learned how the Nutrition Services team plans menus, projects meal participation, and works within a budget that must serve thousands of students each day while maintaining compliance, variety and cost-effectiveness. For example, SUSD recently raised meal prices for the first time in eight years due to rising food, labor, and supply costs. Despite these challenges, the team continues to find ways to keep meals affordable for students and staff while offering healthy choices.
Throughout this rotation, I’ve had the chance to spend time in several SUSD kitchens and see firsthand the effort it takes to prepare enough meals and options for students and teachers each day. I’ve also had the opportunity to participate in the assembly process; blending smoothies, assembling parfaits and wrapping chicken sandwiches right alongside the staff. Behind the scenes, the Nutrition Services team carefully plans each recipe, balancing nutrition, student preference, and the practicality of preparing food efficiently with limited time and staffing (typically about 2-6 employees per kitchen). Feeding so many students across the district requires careful coordination and creativity. To put it in perspective, the graph to the right shows how many meals (for breakfast and lunch) were served just last school year.
Before new items are added to the menu, Nutrition Services aims to involve students in the decision-making process. They department is currently in the process of creating a special event called “Menu Masters”. This event will invite high school students to sample new breakfast and lunch items and give their feedback. I had the opportunity to help with a taste test during an elementary school breakfast during my rotation (see photo below) where the students tried turkey breakfast sausage pizza and a blueberry cinnamon stick with cheese.
While the cafeteria does its part to keep students fueled with healthy meals, children’s food choices are influenced in many places. Here are a few simple ways parents and teachers can help influence healthy eating habits:
- Talk with children about what they buy at school versus what they eat at home and discuss the variety of options available.
- Encourage children to look at the school menu. I’d even recommend looking at the menu together every week. Most school districts post their menus on the district website
- Nutrition education is key. Have a discussion with children about how their school meals and snacks are different from at home. For example, the school-served chicken nugget is baked and has strict nutrition regulations, versus a fast-food nugget that is fried and follows no nutrition regulations.
- If you are a parent, eat lunch with your child at their school when you have the chance.
- In my opinion, the primary focus should be that children are fed, have reliable access to meals, feel safe and supported at school, and are ready to engage in learning. Nutrition is part of that foundation.
In my role as a dietetic intern, observing multiple settings and now working with SUSD, I’ve come to see that school food service is far more complex, regulated, and committed to nutrition than it is often given credit for. From carefully planned menus and portion control to balanced food groups and local produce initiatives, the goal is to nourish students so they can learn, grow, and thrive.
That doesn’t mean every snack choice is perfect, or every child will eat the fruits or vegetables in their meal. But it does mean that the system is built with their health in mind. With your support at home and in the classroom, students can continue to make smart food choices that serve them inside and outside of school.
Thank you for reading my view, and your role in keeping our students nourished, supported and ready to succeed.
Sincerely,
Amber Howell, Maricopa County Department of Public Health-WIC Track Dietetic Intern
Scottsdale Unified School District Rotation
Learn more:
- For detailed national standards on school meals: check the USDA’s “Nutrition Standards for School Meals” page. USDA Food and Nutrition Service+2USDA Food and Nutrition Service+2
- For SUSD menu-information and variety: visit the online menu at https://scottsdale.nutrislice.com/menu?isRunningInMobileApp=true
- To stay up to date on any new SUSD Nutrition Services announcements, follow @susd_nutrition on Instagram and SUSD Nutrition on Facebook
- To learn more about the FFVP: see the USDA’s site for the Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Program. USDA Food and Nutrition Service+1
- Read about Smart Snack Standards here: https://fns-prod.azureedge.us/sites/default/files/resource-files/smartsnacks.pdf
- Learn More at the Source
On November 18th and 20th, our elementary and K8 schools served up something extra special, a Thanksgiving meal that had students (and staff!) smiling from ear to ear. A big shout-out to our amazing Nutrition Services team for putting so much care and hard work into creating such a wonderful event!
From the moment the ovens fired up, the team was all-in, cooking, plating, laughing, and making sure every student got a tasty, festive meal. These rockstars do so much more than prepare food. They bring joy, energy, and a whole lot of heart to our schools every single day.
We can’t forget the volunteers, school administration, and staff! We had an awesome crew of helpers who jumped in to serve meals, greet students, and sprinkle a little extra cheer around the cafeterias. Their enthusiasm helped turn an ordinary school day into something truly special.
A huge THANK YOU to our Nutrition Services team and all the volunteers who made this Thanksgiving lunch unforgettable. Full bellies, happy kids, and a whole lot of gratitude. What more could we ask for?
Happy start to the holiday season!
Scottsdale Unified School District’s Nutrition Services Department offers a wide array of programs throughout the year to help students thrive, both in and out of the classroom. From providing balanced, nutritious meals to offering resources that support families’ evolving needs, the department is committed to ensuring every student has access to healthy food options that fuel learning, growth, and success.
Important Reminder: Update Your LINQ Connect App Now!
To ensure continued access to your student’s meal accounts, please update the LINQ Connect app on your phone as soon as possible. The newest version of the app includes important security enhancements, performance improvements, and new features designed to make managing your child’s school meal account easier than ever.
What’s New:
• Stronger protection for your personal and payment information
• Faster, more reliable performance
• Easier viewing of balances, payments, and meal history
• Updated design for a smoother user experience
Without this update, older versions of the app may not function correctly or may lose access to key features such as viewing balances or making payments. Families are encouraged to ensure they are running the latest version of the app.
How to Update:
- Open the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play Store (Android).
- Search for LINQ Connect.
- Tap Update (or reinstall if needed).
- Log in with your existing account (all of your information will remain intact).
For more details or troubleshooting tips, visit www.LINQConnect.com or contact the SUSD Nutrition Services Department at 480-484-6234.
Has Your Family’s Situation Changed?
Apply for Free or Reduced-Price School Meals
If your household income has recently changed due to furlough, reduced hours, or job loss, your student(s) may now qualify for free or reduced-price meals through Scottsdale Unified School District Nutrition Services.
Even if you didn’t qualify before, you can apply anytime throughout the year if your financial situation changes. Submitting an application ensures your child continues receiving healthy school meals and helps support important school programs funded through meal eligibility data.
How to Apply:
- Visit the LINQ Meal Application Portal at LINQConnect.com
- Sign in or create an account
- Select Scottsdale Unified School District and complete your meal application online
For more information, visit the SUSD Nutrition Services website at www.susd.org/nutrition or call 480-484-6234.
Resources for Families During SNAP Payment Delay
With an anticipated delay in November SNAP payments, some families may experience a brief gap in benefits. During this time, Scottsdale families can turn to local resources for support, such as food banks, school meal programs, and community partners offering food boxes and assistance, to help make sure everyone has access to healthy, nutritious meals.
Local Resources Available:
Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) Nutrition Services:
- Students who are approved for free meals will continue to receive free school breakfasts and lunches.
- Families experiencing new financial hardship due to furlough or delayed paychecks can apply through the LINQ portal on the SUSD Nutrition Services website.
Scottsdale Unified School District/Scottsdale Partners and United Food Bank
- Each month, in collaboration with United Food Bank, 170 food boxes are distributed that reach 107 households, and serve 506 individuals.
- To add your name to the distribution and pock up list, please contact your school’s community specialist as soon as possible
- Here are the dates of our next distributions at the Oak Campus, 7501 E Oak Street:
|
Date |
Location |
|
November 6 |
Oak – Back of the School |
|
December 17 |
Oak – Back of the School |
|
January 7 |
Oak – Back of the School |
|
February 4 |
Oak – Back of the School |
|
March 4 |
Oak – Back of the School |
|
April 1 |
Oak – Back of the School |
Reminder: Re-apply for Free & Reduced-Price Meal Benefits
🍎 IMPORTANT: Free & Reduced Meal Applications
- Must be renewed every school year
- Last year’s approvals expire at the end of day, September 15, 2025
- One application needed per household
What You Need to Do:
- Submit a NEW application BEFORE September 15th.
- Apply online HERE, or pick up a paper copy at the Nutrition Services Office, located at 701 N. Miller Road
- One application covers all students in your household
⚠️ If a new application is not received by end of day on Sept. 15th, your child’s meal status will change to a full price paid meal status. Should a family reapply and become approved for free after that date, the free meal status will become active the date the application is submitted and is not retroactive.
Why It Matters:
- Help your family with meal costs
- Support school funding & student programs
Note for Reduced Meal Approvals:
- Great news! The State of Arizona is approved to cover the reduced meal co-pay for all students approved for reduced meal benefits this current school year, meaning reduced students are at no cost out of pocket this year!
📞 Questions? Contact the Nutrition Services Office at 480-484-6234
Support Students Through the Pay It Forward Program in LINQ Connect
At a recent Scottsdale Parent Council meeting, members asked how parents can help support students in need and how we can better spread the word about donating. One of the easiest and most impactful ways to contribute is through the Pay It Forward program in LINQ Connect.
Did you know you can help other students in our school community by making a donation through the Pay It Forward program in LINQ Connect? This program allows families to give directly to student meal accounts, ensuring that every child has access to nutritious meals, regardless of their financial situation.
How to Donate in LINQ Connect:
- Log in to your LINQ Connect account online or through the mobile app.
- Select your child’s school account.
- Choose the option to “Donate” or “Pay It Forward.”
- Enter the amount you would like to contribute.
- Complete your payment securely.
Your donation goes directly into a dedicated fund that supports students who may need assistance paying for school meals. Even small contributions make a big difference in ensuring no student goes without a healthy meal during the school day.
Why Donate?
- Help support children in our community.
- Ensure every student has access to breakfast and lunch.
- Promote kindness and community spirit within our schools.
Thank you for considering a donation through the Pay It Forward program in LINQ Connect. Together, we can make sure every student is cared for and ready to learn!
Team Awesome Training – Being the Best for our Students!
On July 31st, our Nutrition Services team came together for a full-day mini-conference training. We called it “Camp Awesome.” All 145 staff members participated in the engaging event, which featured an inspiring keynote from Vanessa Hayes on Legacy Building and a variety of dynamic, conference-style breakout sessions.
Throughout the day, staff strengthened their skills in goal setting, USDA regulations, operational best practices, team building, and conflict management with all sessions designed to set them up for success this school year. A highlight of the event was the launch of our brand new “Grahammy Awards,” complete with a red-carpet ceremony! Team members nominated their peers and voted for the winners, making it a fun and memorable celebration of excellence.
Thanks to this energizing training, our Nutrition Services team is not only highly skilled but also motivated and ready to serve students with knowledge, care, and a smile all year long.