
In an effort to re-shape our 2019 School Meal Challenge, and further engage families during the 2020 pandemic, we created this digital project around a myriad of topics that will be enjoyable for both students, parents and educators.
As a part of our 2018-2021 grant work, we continue to advocate for policy issues around school nutrition and supporting coalition partners in an effort to equip Local and State Officials with viable policy options to improve school food.
Families are in need of healthier choices for their children at breakfast, lunch and after school. As you enjoy this 18 video series, please identify ways you can participate in our Statewide call to action.
Have you joined your local PTA?
We need your voice as a member of PTA…at every level…for every child.
1. NCPTA needs your membership. We need champions to continually advocate for improving school meals.
2. NCPTA seeks to engage 2,500 parents and community advocates. Become a Superhero for every child’s school meal choice.
3. NCPTA encourages you to volunteer. Join your local PTA or other local agencies that support policy solutions and improvements for school meals.
4. Local and State decision-makers need to hear your voice. Join your local PTA to speak out on viable policy options for improving school meals.
Visit the NCPTA Advocacy page to view our Legislative Priorities
Along with our collaborative community partner, POE Center for Health, we invited local students into the kitchen to demonstrate child-friendly recipes from the Culinary Meal Resource Guide. Special thanks to Creative Illusions Video Team, Steve and Kim Brame for producing this series. Stay tuned to in November and December for special guest interviews with the POE nutritionist, their dental program, and the Assistant Director of Nutrition Education.
A Day In The Kitchen at POE Nutritional Series
Featured in this segment, is the Culinary Meal Resource Guide published by DPI Director, Dr. Harvey & the K-12 Culinary Institute. Special thanks to the POE Health Nutritionist, the parents of our student volunteers, Janice Johnston, Assistant Director and other DPI staff for their participation.
Berries & Cream Overnight Oats

Cinnamon Cranberry Granola
Blueberry Crisp
Crunchy Baked Sweet Potato
Peanut and Butter Jelly Parfait
Advocating for Policy Improvements: Support Your Schools Breakfast Program
Breakfast After The Bell: (3 part series)
You will gain insight on how to increase student participation in your schools breakfast program. This 3 part series features former Principal Tabari Wallace, Special Advisor to the NC State Superintendent Office of Principal Engagement; Cindy S. Marion, Executive Director of Child Nutrition, Yadkin County Schools (retired); and Gretchen Wilson, SNS Director of Pitt County Schools. Click here to learn more about the Breakfast After The Bell initiative http://nokidhungrync.org/transform/
Part I: Fuel For Learning
Part II: Creating Your Plan
Part III: Executing Your Plan
Advocating for Healthy Meals with A Local Pantry
How to Start a Food Pantry
School Nutrition is Sports Nutrition: A Spotlight on Athletes
This series features two Athletic Nutritionist from UNC-Chapel Hill. In these podcasts you will understand the role of nutrition and wellness decisions that carry forward from school cafeteria to college athletics. If you are the parent of an athlete, take notes during this series. You will hear about the need to balance proper sugar, grains and carbohydrate intake that make for a well-rounded player; on the field and off-season. As you listen, we encourage you to share these videos with your family and friends. NCPTA encourages you to become an advocate for school nutrition and speak up for improving upon the food choices in schools.
Sports Nutrition: Part 1 of 2 – Football
Part 2 of 2: Basketball and Soccer
Dental Day At the POE Center: Re-Think Your Drink
Gather the children around for this informative lesson on how sugary drinks impact tooth health with Alaina Hart, MPH, CHES is the Assistant Director at POE Center. This podcast is a short and sweet, fact-finding journey that compares sugar content in common drinks of choice. After watching this video, you will have an easy recipe, and healthier option with the fizzy drink mixture that Alaina shares. Be sure to visit the POE Center for a Dental Day and explore all the other programs available for your children, or youth group.
Fun with Kale
NCPTA YouTube Channel
Follow & Subscribe to North Carolina PTA YouTube Channel for upcoming Nutrition Nuggets recipes, special guests interviews and great information you can share with your family.