Fort Bend ISD Child Nutrition has proudly earned the prestigious Healthy Meals Incentives Recognition Award for Innovation in Nutrition Education, placing the district among a select group of School Food Authorities (SFAs) recognized nationwide. This honor celebrates SFAs that have made significant strides in enhancing the nutritional quality of school meals and engaging students and families in meaningful nutrition education.

Submitted by Fort Bend ISD's dedicated dietitian, Susan Nayeri, the award application highlighted the department's commitment to connecting the classroom, cafeteria, community, and home through innovative nutrition education initiatives. Susan went above and beyond the requirements, submitting three qualifying activities; though only two were needed, to showcase the department's comprehensive approach to student wellness. 

The award criteria focused on impactful efforts made within the past 12 months, including:

• Providing nutrition education to students at all grade levels; elementary, middle, and high schools, reinforcing healthy habits throughout their academic journey.
• Involving students directly in the development and delivery of nutrition campaigns, including student-led surveys, taste-testing events, and promotional signage.
• Highlighting local agricultural products on school menus and in cafeterias across all campuses, reinforcing the importance of eating locally and supporting local farmers.

Fort Bend ISDs recognition is proudly featured on the Healthy Meals Incentives Awardee Map, available at https://healthymealsincentives.org/recognitionawardees/. Visitors can view the district's official award announcement and learn more about the innovative efforts that earned this national honor.

This recognition places Fort Bend ISD among the few schools in the Houston area and Region 4 to receive this national honor, further solidifying its role as a leader in school nutrition innovation. Looking ahead, Child Nutrition is committed to expanding nutrition education across more campuses. In partnership with the School Health Advisory Council (SHAC) and HART student groups, the district is working to establish hydroponic gardens across campuses through targeted grant opportunities.

Our Child Nutrition's initiatives reflect the department's mission to provide nutritious meals that support academic success, economic stability, and community health. Through education and engagement, students learn not only what's on their plate, but where it comes from and why it matters.