Students at London Towne Elementary have an exciting new way to fill up their lunch trays. A colorful array of fruits and vegetables are now available on the newly-returned salad bar inside the school’s cafeteria. After two years with no salad bar due to the COVID-19 pandemic, students are thrilled to see the healthy options return. Fan favorites include broccoli with cheese, green salad with ranch dressing, and carrots. 

“It’s important for us to have fruits and vegetables because it helps us stay healthy and helps me with football,” said fifth-grader Dristin Rosario. “I’m excited it’s back!”

“We haven’t had it in such a long time and I missed it,” shared fifth-grader Justin Roman. “Today I had a banana, salad, and some cheese. Tomorrow I’ll get it again.”

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid visited London Towne ES to see the salad bar in action. 

“Healthy food for young people is critical,” said Dr. Reid. “We know that healthy food, exercise, and rest helps students learn better. It also helps them develop better coping skills, social emotional skills, and be more confident learners. We’re so excited we’re able to improve the nutrition for all of our children.”

Principal Wiatta Padmore helped students navigate the options on the salad bar and encouraged everyone to try something new. Fifth-grader Kinsley McCormack has her own unique favorite snack from the salad bar. 

“My favorite part was the apples and the ranch. I love apples and ranch together,” said Kinsley. “It’s important to eat healthy so our bodies grow. This helps us get the nutrients and vitamins we need!” 

FCPS Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) is working in phases to get salad bars to all FCPS schools, focusing first on Title 1 elementary schools. 

Learn more about FNS at FCPS.