Boston Public Schools Food Service Program Earns National Recognition For Fresh, Nutritious, Locally Sourced School Meals

Boston Public Schools (BPS) earned Silver status from the Center for Good Food Purchasing, recognizing its efforts to provide fresh and nutritious school meals. Mayor Michelle Wu highlighted the importance of ensuring all students have access to healthy food, reinforcing the district's commitment. Superintendent Mary Skipper noted that the freshly prepared meals enhance student focus and reflect the diverse cultures of the community. BPS serves over 8 million meals annually, with 96% of meals cooked on-site, marking a significant turnaround from pre-packaged meals during the pandemic. The district spends 18% of its food budget on local products, fostering local economic growth.

BPS's food program transformation has led to exceeding national benchmarks in nutrition and sustainability. The Silver status underscores the district's commitment to improving school nutrition and engaging the community through initiatives like school gardens. This recognition positions BPS as a leader in school meal reform, impacting student health and local economies.