During lunch, students at CSArts rely on the food being served at the three lunch stations available in the quad: The Main Window, The Grill, and The Pizza Station for nutrition, energy, and their well being. However, some students say they encounter repetitive and sometimes unhealthy food options, but CSArts food staff say they only have so much to work with.
An anonymous 10th Grade Student buys lunch at The Main Window and said, “I rarely see the cafeteria menu change, and if it does, only two options at the bottom of the menu get replaced and switched.”
Students want more options available, but Cafeteria Manager, Brian Volz says they do their best. “We try to offer several different options daily so that every student has a choice or variety when it comes to what they may want to eat.” He also added that those with allergies also have choices for safe items to eat as well. But, those additions may affect the diversity of the offerings being served to students and staff.
Even though there may be “several different options,” some students would like to see an increase in the quality. “Recently I got Teriyaki Chicken with Rice … The chicken was sliced into small cubes that looked like cereal and seemed processed,” said Anonymous 9th Grade Student.
But, with strict guidelines, considerations for those with allergies, rising food costs, labor, and gas distribution costs, the Cafeteria Team says they are trying their best to provide meals at no cost to students while also working with a tight budget.
“The kitchen staff at CSArts are one of the most dedicated teams I’ve ever encountered. With the limited number of resources available, they really work their hardest and care greatly for staff and students. For them, it’s not just a job; it’s a passion,” CW instructor Robert Blair said.
All food has to meet strict dietary guidelines set by the State of California and the Federal Government (USDA). They are chosen after years of trials, errors, and lots of taste testing. “Low Sodium, Whole Wheat/Whole Grain, low fat, no artificial dyes, etc.. the list goes on and on,” Volz said.
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