In this episode of Cafeteria Confessions, we explore Vegas Vista Academy, a new K-3 school in Las Vegas that is redefining education through its focus on equity, wellness and community engagement. The academy is driven by educational research and emphasizes small class sizes, project-based learning, dual-language instruction and strong community partnerships. With a goal to break down barriers and ensure every student has access to quality education and nutritious meals, Dr. Feinstein, the school’s executive director, highlights the academy’s innovative universal free meals program for both students and staff.

Listen in to discover how, despite the challenges of launching a meal program from scratch, the academy remains dedicated to serving fresh, culturally relevant food that reflects student input while building community partnerships and celebrating local champions.

In this episode of Cafeteria Confessions, we visit the Academy for Global Citizenship (AGC) in Chicago to take a behind-the-scenes look at its groundbreaking approach to sustainable school food. With a six-acre campus that includes a sustainable farm, teaching kitchens, and a fresh food market, AGC has become a true sustainability hub. Kris De la Torre, AGC’s Director of Sustainability and School Food, shares the school’s journey to becoming its own School Food Authority, offering a plant-forward, scratch-based menu that prioritizes minimally processed meals. From the challenges of sourcing local ingredients to successes like engaging students in menu development and garden-based learning, this episode is packed with practical insights and inspiration for anyone passionate about transforming school food programs.

Tune in to learn how AGC is pioneering a holistic approach to school food that fosters environmental responsibility, combats food insecurity, and serves as a model for healthier, more sustainable eating in schools.

In this episode of Cafeteria Confessions, we visit Dr. John Ochsner Discovery Health Sciences Academy (DJOD) in New Orleans, Louisiana, to learn about their innovative approach to school nutrition. DJOD serves 750 students, aiming to provide a high-quality education that goes beyond academics. Their mission is to empower students to make healthy and sustainable choices for themselves and the environment.

A key focus at DJOD is nutrition education and fostering the power of student choice. From an early age, students are taught how to make informed, healthy food decisions—skills they can carry with them for life. The school also integrates hands-on culinary programs, starting in elementary school and continuing through high school. This practical approach not only deepens students' understanding of nutrition but also allows staff to observe how their meal choices evolve, often inspiring healthier habits at home.

The episode also celebrates the pride DJOD’s staff take in serving fresh, healthy meals. Their dedication to wellness demonstrates how prioritizing nutrition creates a thriving school community and supports student success both inside and outside the classroom.