Access to healthy meals is an important part of a student's success in school. Many studies have found that children who are hungry or malnourished have a hard time learning. "Students who eat regular, healthy meals are less likely to be tired, are more attentive and focused in class, and retain more information," says Sean Patrick Corcoran, associate professor of economics and education policy at New York University's Steinhardt School of Culture, Education and Human Development.
According to Feeding American West Michigan, at least 1 in 8 children are food insecure in the state of Michigan. Meaning, their families can't always access or afford enough food for them to live healthy, active lives. Food insecurity impacts academic performance, increases physical health risks, and can lead to developmental differences (including growth rates, brain development, learning, and behavior).
To reduce food insecurity for thousands of children across the state, the State of Michigan has included FREE MEALS for all public school children in the state's budget for the second year in a row! The Food Service Staff at WUS is proud to be part of reducing food insecurity for the children of this community by preparing and serving nutritious meals to children throughout the district! That's why the WUS Food Service staff take such great care and pride in their work!
One parent stated...
"Wayland's Food Service department is just outstanding! I am so thankful for these meals! What a huge burden off of families and a blessing. It's helped our family tremendously."
Looking for additional information on resources in our area?
CALL ALLEGAN COUNTY 2-1-1
Phone: 2-1-1 or 1-800-310-5454
The local impact of FREE school meals on children and families in Wayland has been incredible!
Did you know that Wayland families that have students who eat both BREAKFAST and LUNCH at school have SAVED about $300 PER STUDENT in food costs so far this school year?!? Wayland families that had students utilize the FREE breakfast and FREE lunch each day of school last year saved about $900 in food costs PER STUDENT throughout the school year! Encourage your students to take advantage of this wonderful benefit so your family can save time and money as well!
On November 15th, students at Steeby Elementary had the opportunity to ride the smoothie bike to power the blender and try some delicious smoothies! They were excellent about taking turns, using their manners, and trying something new! Many students shared that this was the first time they had ever tried a smoothie. One student stated, "I didn't think I was going to like it, but I tried it and I actually LOVED it!" After riding the smoothie bike, another student stated, "I wish I could make all my food by riding a bike! That was awesome!"
Want to create smoothies at home? Feel free to try our simple recipe or add to it with your favorite fruits!
We appreciate all that our Food Service staff do throughout the year to bring healthy meals to Wayland Union students! They have been working harder than ever to serve the growing numbers of students accessing meals at school and take great care to ensure the food served to our students is high quality and nutritious. We have an amazing team that truly cares about their students and we are THANKFUL for them!
The FREE & REDUCED PRICE MEAL PROGRAM is a federally funded program that allows students of eligible households to receive benefits including FREE or REDUCED-cost meals at school, EBT assistance, reduced testing fees, and more!
Applying for this program is optional, but all families are encouraged to apply by completing an EDUCATION BENEFITS FORM. Eligibility is based on household size and income level.
If you have not already done so, consider applying for this terrific program.
Questions? Please contact our office! We can explain the application process, eligibility criteria, and benefits.
Looking for a rewarding position with a fun team? Want flexible hours? WUS Food Services is always looking for Substitute Food Service Workers!
One of the benefits our team members appreciate most is the work/life balance of working for the school! The hours are flexible and vacation days follow the school's calendar. With competitive pay, it's a great opportunity!
Many of our team members have students in the district or are retired and looking for some part-time work. Sound like you? Apply today at:
SUBSTITUTE FS POSITIONS (Apply using Edustaff)
To view all open positions within the district, please visit the EMPLOYMENT tab on the district's website.
Questions? Please contact:
Scott Larson, Director of Food Services
(269)792-3150, ext. 2610
WUS FOOD SERVICE DEPARTMENT>>>
Director
(269)792-3150, ext. 2610
Secretary
(269)792-3150, ext. 2601