Elise Patel, a Nettingham Middle School student, was named a Grand Prize Winner in the seventh annual Healthy School Lunch Challenge, standing out among entries from all school districts served by Pomptonian Food Service. Patel earned the top honor for her original Berry BBQ Chicken Bowl recipe, which creatively met the contest requirements by featuring lean protein, whole grains and the seasonal "fruit of the month," blackberries. 

The challenge, held in honor of National Nutrition Month, encouraged students to develop recipes that could be replicated in school cafeterias to promote balanced eating habits. As a Grand Prize Winner, Patel will have her winning meal featured on the school lunch menu for the entire student body to enjoy. This recognition followed a rigorous selection process that evaluated submissions based on nutritional value, presentation and the use of healthy ingredients.  

To celebrate the achievement, the district coordinated a special ceremony where students had the opportunity to sample the Berry BBQ Chicken Bowl. During the event, a commemorative banner was presented to be displayed in the school cafeteria in recognition of the accomplishment. This initiative continues to highlight the importance of fueling student success through healthy and accessible meals. 

Congrats, Elise!