(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT — Sept. 30, 2025) — El Paso ISD’s youngest learners got a behind-the-scenes look at how their school meals are made, thanks to an interactive series of kitchen tours hosted by the district’s Food and Nutrition Services (FNS).
Pre-K and kindergarten students were invited into campus kitchens to explore where their food comes from, how meals are prepared, and the equipment that makes it all possible. Along the way, they had the chance to peek inside large refrigerators and freezers, watch staff at work, and learn about the care that goes into serving thousands of meals every day. Each tour wrapped up with students enjoying a healthy snack, reinforcing the importance of good nutrition.
“These tours are about more than showing our kitchens—they’re about helping students understand the value of healthy eating and the teamwork it takes to keep them fueled for learning,” said Laura Eggemeyer, Assistant Director Food Services. “We want our youngest learners to see that nutritious food helps them grow strong, stay focused, and succeed in school.”
El Paso ISD’s Food and Nutrition Services plays a vital role in student success, serving an average of 50,000 meals daily across the district, including breakfast, lunch, and supper. With over 500 cafeteria employees and a team of seven registered dietitians, FNS designs menus that meet government guidelines while incorporating student feedback to ensure meals are both healthy and appealing.
The tours are also part of El Paso ISD’s broader commitment to providing nutrition education alongside quality meals. By introducing students to the people, processes, and principles behind their daily meals, the district hopes to foster lifelong healthy habits and a deeper appreciation for the role nutrition plays in education.
“Food is fuel, and we want our students to know that what they eat impacts how they feel, learn, and play,” Eggemeyer added. “These early experiences make a big difference in shaping how they view nutrition as part of their lives.”
For more information on El Paso ISD’s Food and Nutrition Services, including weekly menus and resources for families, visit www.episd.org/food-nutrition-services.