Tour of Chula Vista Middle School Kitchen and Garden Showcased How District Serves Nearly 4 Million Free School Meals Annually Using Fresh, Local Ingredients

California State Senator Steve Padilla visited Chula Vista Middle School recently to recognize the Sweetwater District and Director of Nutrition Services Director with a resolution in honor of his visionary leadership in school nutrition policy and farm to school programs that contribute to students’ health and wellbeing. Under Span’s leadership, the Sweetwater District has developed school gardens where students grow and harvest fruits, vegetables, and fresh eggs for school meals.

Demand for free, nutritious meals in California TK–12 schools has increased under the School Meals for All program that began in the 2022–23 school year. Thanks to critical state investments, California is leading the nation in transforming school meals to feature fresh, local ingredients that students love. Sweetwater’s nutrition program showcases how state funding supports schools in meeting the increased demand with more freshly-prepared food.

Senator Padilla, Sweetwater District Superintendent Dr. Moises Aguirre, representatives from the Center for Ecoliteracy, California Food for California Kids, and district leaders visited the Chula Vista Middle School kitchen, cafeteria, and school garden. They also engaged with students participating in the garden program, and together, they enjoyed a meal provided by the Nutrition Services Department. The ingredients for the meal were sourced directly from the school’s garden, highlighting a commitment to promoting healthy eating habits and sustainability within the school community.

“We take pride in the strides we have made in enhancing our school nutrition programs and are grateful for the recognition and support extended by Senator Padilla and the state of California,” said Superintendent Aguirre. “Let us continue our collective efforts to prioritize the health and wellness of our students by fostering a positive and sustainable food environment in our schools.”