A healthy, balanced diet provides the nutrients and energy the body needs to support overall well-being. It helps people maintain good health and perform at their best each day.
Albuquerque Public Schools continues to advocate for healthy eating in the community. Recently, the district participated in an event highlighting the importance of making nutritious food choices.
The district’s Food and Nutrition Services (FANS) team joined community partners at the Food is Medicine event, hosted by the NAACP Albuquerque Branch and UNM Hospital. The initiative promoted healthy eating and access to fresh foods.
Families gathered for a day focused on health and wellness. Organizers offered free produce boxes filled with fruits and vegetables, cooking demonstrations, health vendors, community resources and family-friendly activities.
Marie Johnson, executive director of FANS, attended on behalf of APS. She spoke about the importance of including fruits and vegetables in a healthy diet.
During her presentation, she encouraged attendees to take on three simple challenges:
- Eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables each day
- Enjoy fruits and vegetables in their natural form whenever possible, using minimal heat to help preserve nutrients
- Eat the rainbow by choosing a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables that support different healthy functions throughout the body
A Taste of What’s to Come
Johnson also shared copies of APS’ new farm-fresh pico de gallo recipe with families. She gave attendees a preview of one of the fresh menu items students can look forward to when school begins.
The recipe showcases the vision of FANS. The department continues to expand its menu with more scratch-made meals featuring locally sourced ingredients and culturally relevant flavors. These efforts provide students with nutritious, appealing meals while introducing them to a wider variety of fresh, wholesome foods.
By sharing recipes and nutrition education at community events like Food is Medicine, APS helps families build healthy habits beyond the classroom. The district also generates excitement for the new menu options students will enjoy during the upcoming school year.
FANS Team Upskills Ahead of New School Year
The APS FANS team recently joined a state conference to exchange ideas and gain valuable training. At least 65 members engaged in professional development, networking, and leadership opportunities at the New Mexico School Nutrition Association conference.
Johnson said the conference affirmed the district’s vision for the future of school meals.
“Attending this conference reminded us of the important work we do every day for students,” Johnson said. “Our team is excited about the 2026-2027 school year and the opportunity to continue expanding scratch-made, minimally processed and culturally relevant menu options. We’re focused on serving meals that nourish students, celebrate our community and help every child thrive.”
Starting August 7, district staff will prepare more than half of the menu items from scratch.
Johnson said there will be lots of training over the summer so the team is fully equipped by August. “All of our menus will be 51% scratch or more.”