Hamilton Southeastern School Corporation provides food from around the world for students

FISHERS, Ind. — One local school district is changing the way students enjoy cafeteria food. The goal is to bring more healthy options to the table while introducing students to different cultures from around the world.

“We are trying to introduce vegetables and fruit in a different way,” said Karen Ogden, the director of food service with the Hamilton Southeastern School Corporation.

Students at Hamilton Southeastern Schools don’t even have to leave the building to experience unique meals from around the world.

“It’s nice to be able to find something different for the kids to have other than the regular pizza, chicken sandwich, and tacos, so it’s nice to see them embrace having some different options,” Ogden said.

The idea of Global Meals at the Hamilton Southeastern School Corporation was first introduced to students last year but because of the popularity, the district is taking the idea to a whole new level this year.

“We have a lot of diversity in our district so trying to expose all of our children to the different cultures that we have so they can taste different foods, taste things that they might not have ever had, so just wanting to teach kids and have them step outside their comfort zone and try something they might not always get at home,” Ogden said.

This year, students will get to experience cuisines from a wide range of countries and cultures while enjoying more fresh fruits and vegetables. Additionally, because the menu will see more changes during the different seasons of the year, this means there will be more opportunities for students to try different things.

“I think it’s exciting,” said Stephanie Milentis, a local parent. “I think it is always great to try new things and being exposed to things. Their dad’s side of the family is actually from Macedonia, so I love that they have been able to try food from Greece.”

And some of the Global Meal monthly favorites will come back but this time permanently.

“For example, Ramen. We introduced Ramen at all levels from elementary through high school,” Ogden said. “The kids loved it so we have introduced it on our menu.”

The hope in all of this is to encourage students to try new things and experience the world in new ways.

“I just think it is great anytime you can expose our children to a wide variety of different ethnicities and cultures, especially doing it through food. That’s just a natural thing people gravitate towards,” Milentis said.

Hamilton Southeastern students will officially head back to the classroom on Wednesday, Aug. 7. The district is also hiring more cooks and kitchen staff. To learn more about the district, click here.