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BREADCRUMB

Marietta City Schools leads Georgia in school meal innovation through new pilot program

Marietta City Schools leads Georgia in school meal innovation through new pilot program

Marietta, GA — Marietta City Schools (MCS) continues its student nutrition leadership as one of three districts in Georgia selected for the prestigious Georgia ACRE Collective's Local Foods Incentive School Pilot Program. This program paves the way for MCS to provide fresh, locally sourced food in school cafeterias. Now in its second year, the district has received nearly $40,000 in funding, enhancing school meals while supporting minority farmers across the state. 

“This program is transformative,” said Cindy Culver, Director of Nutrition. “Our staff at MHS, MSGA, and now MMS have fully embraced this opportunity to elevate what we serve our students. By partnering with the ACRE Collective, we’re improving our menus and building relationships with Georgia farmers that make a real difference.”

Fresh Ingredients, Statewide Impact

Through this program, MCS introduced over 1,400 pounds of chicken and 500 pounds of grass-fed beef into its cafeterias, crafting meals that reflect the district’s commitment to quality and innovation. Dishes like chicken chimichurri—winner of the Georgia Department of Education’s “Tray of the Week” award—showcase the delicious potential of locally sourced ingredients.

 Beyond the cafeteria, the program supports historically underserved producers, creating economic opportunities for Black, Indigenous, and women farmers. Collaborating with The Common Market Southeast, MCS has helped strengthen Georgia’s agricultural community while enriching the dining experience for students.

 A Culinary Revolution

This year, MCS also expanded its commitment to innovation by welcoming Chef David Garcia as the district’s first-ever full-time chef. With 17 years of experience, Chef Garcia has brought global flavors to MCS menus, such as chicken tikka masala, Peruvian chicken, and Mexican corn salad, reflecting the diversity of the district’s student population.

 “Our goal is to create meals that excite students and celebrate the community’s rich cultural heritage,” Garcia said. “Food has the power to connect, and we’re using it to build stronger relationships with the students we serve.”

 Feeding Students, Even in Inclement Weather

The Nutrition Department’s dedication extends beyond school walls. During last week’s winter weather, MCS was one of only two metro Atlanta districts to prepare and distribute thousands of pre-packaged breakfasts and lunches to students before school closures.

 "When faced with challenges, our team rises to the occasion,” Culver said. “Preparing and distributing thousands of meals for the snow day reflects our unwavering commitment to ensuring every child has access to healthy, balanced food. I’m grateful for our staff and volunteers who made it possible.”

MCS’s efforts to prepare students for inclement weather, combined with its innovative programs, exemplify the district’s philosophy: Special. Different. Better. From fresh, local ingredients to unmatched care for its students, MCS continues to lead the way in school nutrition.

 

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