Suffolk Public Schools is proud to announce that our Nutritional Services team, led by Dr. Lawrence Whiting has been recognized as one of 13 groups in Virginia selected to participate in the prestigious 2024-2025 Virginia School Recipe Development Team. This initiative, spearheaded by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) and the Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs, seeks to transform school meal programs by creating standardized recipes that are both nutritious and delicious.

This statewide collaboration aligns with USDA nutritional guidelines and emphasizes the use of fresh, locally sourced agricultural products. The goal is to ensure that students across the Commonwealth have access to meals that not only meet strict nutritional requirements but also highlight Virginia’s rich farming heritage. By incorporating local ingredients, the initiative supports both student health and regional farmers, reinforcing the farm-to-school movement.

Representing SPS in this initiative will be Dr. Whiting, Director of Nutritional Services, along with Ms. Angela Howell, Nutritional Services Compliance Coordinator. Their participation showcases Suffolk Public Schools’ commitment to providing high-quality, innovative meal options that appeal to students while supporting their overall well-being.

“The opportunity to be part of the Virginia School Recipe Development Team is an incredible honor,” said Dr. Whiting. “Our team is dedicated to improving school nutrition and ensuring that meals served in our schools are both healthy and enjoyable. "This collaboration allows us to bring fresh ideas to the table and have a meaningful impact on students’ lives."

As a model for school nutrition programs across the state, the efforts of the Virginia School Recipe Development Team will showcase how creativity and teamwork can enhance the dining experience for students. The newly developed recipes will serve as templates for schools across Virginia, providing consistent, high-quality meal options that can be easily implemented in cafeterias statewide.

Suffolk Public Schools’ involvement in this initiative reflects its dedication to student success beyond the classroom. By ensuring access to nutritious, appealing meals, the district is helping to foster healthier eating habits that can have long-term benefits for students. Research has consistently shown that well-nourished students perform better academically, have improved concentration, and develop lifelong healthy eating habits.

In addition to creating nutritious meals, this initiative also presents an opportunity for valuable community engagement. By collaborating with local farmers and food producers, schools can strengthen connections within their communities while promoting sustainable food practices. This aligns with SPS’s broader mission of building strong relationships between schools and local organizations.

We look forward to the positive impact this initiative will have on students and families. Our school district remains committed to staying at the forefront of school nutrition, ensuring that every student has access to meals that support their health and academic success. As Dr. Whiting and Angela Howell embark on this journey with the Virginia School Recipe Development Team, SPS eagerly anticipates the innovative contributions they will bring to school cafeterias across the state.

For more information on our SPS Nutritional Services' involvement in school meal initiatives, visit our district’s website or follow updates from the Virginia Department of Education’s Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs.