Image From Haneul Lach
In recent years, school lunches have improved noticeably, with more variety and meals that feel less processed and more homemade. For many students, this shift has made school lunch a more appealing and reliable option.
Senior Michael Peng, who has been eating school lunch since elementary school, has noted these changes over time. “I’ve been getting school lunch for about 12 years now,” he said. For students like Peng, school meals are not just convenient but essential, especially for those who may not have the time, transportation, or money to eat off campus.
According to Peng, the difference between past and present lunches is significant. “Freshman year, it really was just pizza and sandwiches… reheated food,” he explained. The menu often felt repetitive due to the lack of variety. However, in recent years, the school has introduced a wider range of options, including dishes like curry chicken, Western burgers, and chicken and waffles.
Peng believes these changes reflect a greater level of effort from the lunch staff. “The chicken and waffles really shows the dedication they put into this,” he said. He explained that while the school may have had the resources in the past, staff members are now more willing to prepare meals that require extra time and effort. These additions have helped create a more diverse menu that better reflects the student body.
The improvements are not limited to main dishes. Sides and fruit options have also expanded, offering students more variety. “They’ve been adding things like elote, pineapple, even kiwis,” Peng said, noting that these options would have been uncommon in earlier years. The addition of these items contributes to a more balanced and appealing meal overall.
Despite the progress in lunch offerings, Peng pointed out that the brunch menu has not improved as much. While still decent, he said it has “taken a tank a little bit in exchange for the lunch foods being better.” However, he acknowledged that items like breakfast burritos and egg sandwiches remain popular among students.
Overall, the improvements in school lunches have made a noticeable impact. Peng estimates that about 70% of the time, it is more worth it to eat school lunch rather than go off campus, especially on days when special meals are offered. He also mentioned that students can check the menu ahead of time, making it easier to decide when school lunch is the better option.
The changes to the lunch program reflect a growing effort to better meet students’ needs. With more variety, improved quality, and meals that feel more thoughtfully prepared, school lunch is becoming more than just a convenient option—it is now a preferred choice for many students.
Haneul Lach is a senior at Washington high school. Born and raised in Fremont, this is his first year working on the Hatchet, with interests in journalism and books. He is a varsity water polo player and swimmer who enjoys hiking and being outside, in any setting. He plans on attending a west coast college and pursuing a double major of fire science and communications.