School Lunch Hero Day - April 27 - May 1, 2026
Forrest City School District to Honor School Lunch Heroes Serving Healthy Meals
Celebrating School Lunch Hero Day on May 1, 2026
FORREST CITY, ARKANSAS–School nutrition professionals are heroes. That’s why they are recognized every spring with the annual School Lunch Hero Day the first Friday in May. Between preparing delicious and healthy food, adhering to strict nutrition standards, navigating student food allergies, and offering service with a smile, school district nutrition professionals have a lot on their plate. To celebrate their hard work and commitment to being heroes for students, School Lunch Hero Day will be celebrated during School Lunch Hero Week, April 27-May 1, 2026. This day, celebrated annually since 2013, was designated by The School Nutrition Association and Jarrett Krosoczka, author of the “Lunch Lady” graphic novel series. School Lunch Hero Day provides an opportunity for parents, students, school staff and the community to thank those who provide healthy meals to nearly 30 million of America’s students daily.
“School nutrition employees must balance many roles and follow numerous federal, state and local regulations to ensure safe and healthy meals are prepared. School Lunch Hero Week provides the perfect opportunity for the community to thank these hardworking heroes whose valuable contributions to the education and well-being of children are oftentimes overlooked. Our department positively impacts the entire school district and the community because it is able to provide breakfast, lunch, after school meals, and summer meals to students at no charge. Each of my team members has worked diligently to ensure that nutritious meals that children enjoy are provided to promote their academic success, healthy and productive lifestyles, for the benefit of our district and community. Our Child Nutrition heroes deserve this special recognition,” said Cynthia Gammon, Child Nutrition Supervisor.
Federal nutrition standards ensure that school cafeterias always offer low-fat or fat-free milk, fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein. School meals also meet limits on calories, sodium and unhealthy fats. The importance and nutritional value of school meals are well documented. For many children, school lunch is the most important and nutrient-rich meal of their day.
Get the details about School Lunch Hero Day at www.schoollunchheroday.com.
“USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender”
The School Nutrition Association (SNA) is a national, non-profit professional organization representing more than 50,000 school nutrition professionals across the country. Founded in 1946, SNA and its members are dedicated to making healthy school meals and nutrition education available to all students. To find out more about today’s school meals, visit School Nutrition Website.