Northwest Food & Nutrition participates in the National School Lunch and School Breakfast programs. All meals are nutritionally balanced and adhere to the federal nutrition regulations set forth by the USDA.

Southwest Foodservice Excellence's General Manager of Northwest's Food Service and Northwest are committed to the nutritional well being of every student and staff member. As part of this commitment, you will notice excellent food quality, US sourced food, variety, and revolutionary menus that appeal to everyone. The students, staff, and administrators will be able to enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables, made from scratch meals, and interactive nutrition education programs that involve administrators, teachers, parents/guardians, and students. The District’s partnership with Southwest Foodservice Excellence (SFE) provides students and staff with the freshest, most appetizing, and nutritious foods within the Pre K-12 community.

The department has implemented many innovative initiatives and learning opportunities, such as Rainbows & Butterflies where students are introduced to fruits and vegetables of different colors and use that produce to create their own edible rainbows to enjoy! Many classrooms have enjoyed the Roving Chef program, in which students prepare a meal while learning about the ingredients and the science behind cooking.  Additionally, students at all levels are actively engaged in providing feedback during taste testing.

Please call our Food Service Department at 636-677-3473 ext. 21126 with any questions or concerns. SFE and Northwest looks forward to serving you!

2025-26 School Year Free and Reduced Lunch Program

We encourage our families to fill out a meal application as soon as possible.  Along with providing meal assistance and discounts to families, completed Free & Reduced applications enable the District to enhance students' learning through providing vital programs and services and the staffing for these programs. Please note: If you completed an application before July 1, you need to reapply for this school year as the federally defined school year begins on July 1 and the UDSA updates household income eligibility guidelines yearly.

The quick and easy application can be found on the Free & Reduced Application page. This year’s meal prices can also be found on the Breakfast and Lunch Prices page.  To access your child(ren)’s meal account and make payments please visit the Meal Account Information page.

The USDA has compiled some Frequently Asked Questions and information for parents/guardians about the changes that include helpful information about continuing supply chain issues across the country that may affect our menu items here at Northwest. 

The Northwest R-I School District is committed to the optimal development of every student. The District believes that for students to have the opportunity to achieve personal, academic, developmental and social success, a positive, safe and health-promoting learning environment at every level, in every setting, throughout the school year needs to exist.

The District promotes healthy schools by supporting wellness, good nutrition, and regular physical activity as part of a complete learning environment. The District supports a healthy environment where children learn and participate in positive dietary and lifestyle practices. Schools contribute to the basic health status of children by facilitating learning through the support and promotion of good nutrition and physical activity. Improved health optimizes student performance potential.

Student Wellness Policy 2750 

Wellness Policy Assessment