Modernizing makes a difference in Meridian, Idaho - Celebrating 40 Years of School Lunch

Food and Nutrition, Oct, 1986 by Dee Amaden

Larsen cautions that computerization may not be for everyone. "You have to be really interested,' she says, "or you could end up with a system you won't use. I recommend that anyone who is interested explore what other districts are doing. See if their system works and if they like it.'

Larsen's future goal is to continue to increase participation. Larsen says she "won't be satisfied until it's 100 percent.' Because she can rely on the computer, she expects to have the time to continue working with the students and her staff to get more students to buy lunch.

Ideas from other distrincts helpful

Larsen is looking for a way for a computer or cash register to relay participation and revenue data from each school directly to her computer. This would eliminate entering the data into her system and would increase accuracy. She's still exploring how to do it and hopes she'll find someone who has some suggestions.

"I've borrowed lots of ideas from other districts, and I'm always looking for something I can use. I don't want to re-invent the wheel. And if someone else can benefit from what I'm doing, that's just great.'

For more information, contact: Noreen Larsen Food Service Director Meridian Joint School District #2 911 Meridian Street Meridian, Idaho 83642 Telephone: (208) 888-1761