BELGRADE, Mont. — Belgrade Public Schools has received national recognition for its healthy school meals. The district won the Small and/or Rural SFA Lunch Trailblazer Award from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Action for Healthy Kids.
The award honors schools that improve meal quality and offer students nutritious, locally inspired food. Belgrade’s food service team was praised for using scratch-made meals, locally sourced ingredients, and for reducing sodium in school meals. The district also documented and shared its strategies to encourage healthy meal practices.
“We are proud of the dedication and creativity our Food Service team brings to the table,” said Superintendent Dede Semerad. “This recognition reflects our commitment to nourishing students’ bodies and minds.”
Rob Bisceglie of Action for Healthy Kids said the award highlights schools that provide children with better nutrition. USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service Administrator Cindy Long added that Belgrade’s achievements set an example for other schools.
As part of the award, Belgrade Public Schools will receive recognition and a travel stipend to attend the Healthy Meals Summit in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The Healthy Meals Incentives Recognition Awards celebrate schools that improve nutrition, engage the community, and follow the 2020–2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
Belgrade Public Schools and its food service team will now share their strategies to help other districts provide healthier meals to students.
