To achieve this award, schools must meet rigorous state criteria, including incorporating Georgia Grown items, achieving a health score of 90 or above, maintaining student participation at or above state averages, implementing creative breakfast and lunch marketing plans, and receiving administrator or community recommendation letters.

The Jane Macon nutrition team met and exceeded these requirements by:

• Partnering with students on a school herb garden and utilizing hydroponic lettuce in meal services.

• Hosting special event meals for Black History Month, Grandparents Day, Thanksgiving, Veterans Day, National School Lunch Week, School Breakfast Week, and Harvest of the Month.

• Earning nominations for "Tray of the Week" twice.

• Winning local culinary competitions and developing new recipes using Georgia Grown peanuts.

• Continuously providing exceptional breakfast and lunch options for students.