When we think about educating the whole child for the whole day of school, we have to consider what is taking place in our cafeterias.  The foods that our children eat play a big part in how they feel, which impacts how they learn, and how they grow.  Congressman Jim McGovern understands this.  I think about school lunches when I was young – and I am not quite sure that they were as nutritious as they are these days.  And…in high school I was really into the Hostess chocolate covered donuts.  I probably ate too many of those. 

On Friday, March 31, 2023, Congressman Jim McGovern paid a special visit to Uxbridge High School, where he took the time to explore the school's commitment to providing healthy food options for our students. The Congressman's visit showcased the importance of promoting nutritious meals and supporting local agriculture, while also highlighting the value of free school meals for all students.

During his visit, Congressman McGovern toured the school's cafeteria, where students have access to an array of healthy food options each day. These options include fresh vegetables, grass-fed beef, and produce sourced from local farms. By offering these wholesome choices, Uxbridge High School demonstrates its dedication to fostering a healthy lifestyle for its students and supporting the community's local economy.

Following the cafeteria tour, Congressman McGovern participated in a panel discussion with a group of students who are passionate about healthy foods. They discussed the advantages of free school meals for all, emphasizing how this initiative helps not only students but also their families. By removing the financial barrier, free school meals ensure that every child has access to nutritious food, regardless of their family's economic status. This, in turn, leads to improved academic performance and overall wellbeing.

In addition to the panel discussion, Congressman McGovern visited the school's Foods and Nutrition class. Here, students are taught the importance of making healthy choices and learn how to prepare nutritious meals. Demonstrating their creativity and adaptability, the class even talked to the  Congressman about how they make brownies using applesauce as a healthier alternative to traditional recipes – which everyone could smell as we approached the classroom.

Congressman McGovern's visit to Uxbridge High School underscored the significance of providing students with access to healthy food options and the benefits of free school meals. It also served as a reminder that schools can play a crucial role in promoting the health and wellbeing of their students by offering nutritious meals and supporting local agriculture.

As more schools across the nation follow in Uxbridge High School's footsteps, we can look forward to a future where all students have access to the nourishment, they need to thrive both in and out of the classroom. Congressman Jim McGovern's visit is a testament to the power of community engagement and the importance of prioritizing health and wellness in our educational institutions.