After my letter concerning the Maries R-1 lunch program appeared in a recent Maries County Advocate, I have had communication from Mrs. Teresa Messersmith, Maries R-1 superintendent.
In my opinion, she indicated that the school and the food service director are making a concerted effort to see that Free and Reduced Lunch forms are made available to parents at the Back-to-School Fair and the Open House for parents, and that help is offered in filling out the forms. Parents with significant balances are called and offered help in filling out the forms. Information about the Free and Reduced Lunch Program is posted on the school’s website and on their social media pages.
Maries R-1 is not planning to terminate the current cafeteria staff. Although it was brought up by a few individuals that the district use a contracted food service provider for the school’s lunch program, the Board did not feel that this was the best option for Maries R-1. Mrs. Messersmith agrees that the current cafeteria staff is very responsive to the district and student needs.
The Maries R-1 School Board voted that they will not have a lunch charge limit and that no one will be served a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, even if they have an excessive lunch balance. Every child will receive a full meal every day.
The letter I received eased any concerns I had about Maries R-1’s lunch program. They still want their students to succeed. This is what Vienna High School wanted for me. Mr. Jack Allen was very instrumental in seeing that I was prepared to go to college and become a teacher. My childhood dream became a reality.
I will contribute to the lunch program again this year, and I hope others will also contribute. I am very pleased with what Maries R-1 is doing for the students.
Sincerely,
Mary Halbrook
