Students and cafeteria staff serving and holding school lunch trays in a cafeteria.Between classes, rehearsals, after-school practices, and more, PWCS students are busy. And staying sharp through all of it takes more than willpower – it takes good food.

As we wrap up National Nutrition Month and this year's theme, "Discover the Power of Nutrition," PWCS is taking a closer look at how school meals support students in and out of the classroom.

“Our menus are designed to fuel our students,” said Callie Nickles, Administrative Coordinator for Nutrition for PWCS. “We offer options that are nutritionally balanced, flavorful, and appealing so our students can be successful in all their endeavors.”

Here's a look at five PWCS lunch favorites, and what makes each one worth putting on the tray:

Spicy Chicken Sandwich: With 26 grams of protein, the spicy chicken sandwich is a go-to for students juggling schoolwork and after-school sports. It's a student favorite for good reason – filling enough to get through afternoon classes without hitting a wall and flavorful enough that students enjoy it. Combine the sandwich with curly fries, tossed salad, an apple, and some chocolate milk, and students have a lunch with a whopping 36 grams of protein and 11 grams of dietary fiber to keep them satiated for the rest of the day.

Beef Nachos: The famous PWCS scratch-made spicy beef with queso and tortilla chips pack a punch with 25 grams of protein. With toppings like corn salad, Pico de Gallo, and shredded lettuce, there’s ample opportunity to add flavor, texture, and essential vitamins to this meal.

Honey Fire Chicken with Basmati Rice: Lean protein (16 grams) and carbohydrates (59 grams) make this entrée a solid choice for students who need a reliable energy boost before lacrosse practice or a debate meet. It's the kind of meal that keeps you going without weighing you down, especially with the addition of sides like stir fried cabbage and fresh fruit.

Spaghetti and Meat Sauce: This spaghetti with meat sauce delivers a scratch-made meal with balanced macronutrients – 50% carbohydrates (70 grams), 20% protein (26 grams), and 30% fat (18 grams). Pair it with scratch-made garlic bread, steamed broccoli, and fresh fruit for an incredibly satiating and nourishing meal.

Veggie Buffalo Bites: Don't let the vegetarian label fool you. These deliver 14 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber, plus calcium and potassium. Complete your meal with baked beans and fresh fruit for an impressive 27 grams of plant-based protein. This meal is proof that plant-based options can hold their own when it comes to keeping students full and focused.

Whether a student needs quick energy before a game or something more sustaining for a day of classes, PWCS menus are built with that in mind. The variety – globally inspired dishes, plant-based options, and student favorites – keeps lunch from feeling like an afterthought.

“We understand that school meals are more than just food”, said Nickles. “They’re the fuel that our students need to prepare for that difficult test or tonight’s performance or next week’s match. School breakfast and lunch prepare our students to face those challenges and help them build healthy habits to continue thriving after graduation.”

Curious what’s powering your student through their day? Check out your school’s menus via MealViewer.