The School Nutrition Department recently partnered with Myrtle Point McKay’s Market to host an exciting and interactive assembly focused on healthy eating for students in kindergarten through fifth grade.
During the event, students were introduced to the MyPlate guide and learned about the importance of eating a balanced diet. Staff discussed how choosing foods from all five food groups helps support growing bodies and overall wellness. Students also explored how healthy habits begin at the grocery store, and how meal planning can help families make better choices at home.
Thanks to the generosity of McKay’s Market, a wide variety of foods representing all five food groups were provided, along with grocery bags and shopping baskets used during the activity.
Students were selected from each grade level to form two teams, with six participants per grade. Each team had assigned roles, including runners, sorters, and shoppers. The challenge required teamwork and quick thinking—shoppers handed items to runners, who delivered them to sorters responsible for placing each item into the correct food group category. If an item was incorrectly sorted, it had to be returned and exchanged, adding an extra layer of excitement.
The crowd played an important role as well, cheering on classmates and offering encouragement throughout the activity. With music playing and students actively participating, the assembly created an energetic and engaging learning environment. Once all items were correctly sorted, teams completed the challenge by bagging their groceries.
This fun and educational event reinforced the importance of healthy eating while promoting teamwork and school spirit. The School Nutrition Department extends a sincere thank you to McKay’s Market for their generous support in making this memorable experience possible.
https://www.fns.usda.gov/tn/myplate for info and handouts about MyPlate