Sikeston School District tries out mini salad bar in elementary school

SIKESTON, Mo. -- Students at Lee Hunter Elementary were the first Wednesday to sample the new mini salad bars that will be at all of the district's elementary schools by the school year's end.

First-grader Trinity Land was one of many students who opted for a salad to go with the regular lunch.

"It's like a restaurant," Trinity said. "It's better than a restaurant. ... From now on, I'm eating a salad every day."

A week after the new school year began, a mini salad bar was opened for the first time. Students could choose diced tomatoes, cheese and bell peppers to top their salads. They could also grab a package of baby carrots and a container of ranch dressing. The salad bar will be offered daily.

"We're trying to offer more healthy choices in all the elementary schools," said Kevin Morris, the district's food service director. "We just want to say, 'Hey, we're here to feed you and have a good time.'"

Some may worry about the mess, that children may not eat what they take or that the salad bar will disrupt the timing of lunches, but it's all about providing options and about the students learning.

"There are a lot of expectations. They will learn how to use it. Children aren't stupid," Morris said.

Last spring the Sikeston School Board awarded the food services contract to Aramark. On July 1 Aramark officially began working for the district. Morris said staff training took place over the summer and will continue throughout the school year.

"The core of the staff I've inherited is very good," Morris said.

Employees spent much of the summer giving Lee Hunter and the Seventh and Eighth Grade Center fresh coats of vibrant paint. The goal is to give all the building cafes a new look before the end of the school year.

Part of Aramark's services is providing a fun atmosphere for children. For example, the walls in cafe area where food is served at Lee Hunter are painted orange, green and yellow. Matching signs also hang in the area.

"The vibrant colors and signs liven it up," Morris said about the cafe area.

The goal is to finish work at the Seventh and Eighth Grade Center by next week. Then work will begin at Southeast Elementary or Matthews Elementary, Morris said.

Sikeston is the first Southeast Missouri school district to use Aramark's services.