As an ESL teacher at Greenfield Middle School, I have the privilege of working with students from many different cultural, religious and economic backgrounds. My job is to not only give my students the tools needed to succeed in the classroom, but also to ensure they have the support and resources they need to thrive each day. That’s why I support the Plant Powered School Meals Pilot Act. By helping schools offer non-dairy milk and plant-based options in our schools, the bill removes barriers that can prevent students from accessing nutritious, appropriate foods in schools.
Many students eat plant-based foods because of cultural traditions, religious practices, family preferences or health needs. Others cannot digest dairy. Research shows that lactose intolerance disproportionately affects people of color, making access to non-dairy milk an important equity issue.
School meal programs should reflect the diversity of the students they serve. When schools offer plant-based meals and non-dairy milk, they ensure more students can participate in school meals and access the nutrition they need to learn and grow. Plus, expanding these options doesn’t take choices away from anyone, it simply allows more students to have the foods that help them thrive.
Food and nutrition are facets of culturally sustaining pedagogy. Every student deserves access to healthy, inclusive meals at school. I thank U.S. Rep. Jim McGovern for supporting and I urge Senators Markey and Warren to support the Plant Powered School Meals Pilot Act so that all students in Greenfield and across the U.S. have the opportunity to learn, grow and succeed.
Sierra Rother
Springfield