I propose the mandatory inclusion of Zabiha halal and kosher food options in all public school systems, from pre-kindergarten through high school, and extending to college campuses

As someone raised in a Muslim household with strict dietary guidelines, I experienced firsthand the challenges of adhering to Zabiha halal standards. Zabiha halal refers to meat slaughtered according to Islamic law, and kosher meat follows a ritualistic process similar to Judaism. Growing up, it took a lot of work to find suitable meal options in school, as many lunches contained pork or non-halal meats, leaving me with limited choices like vegetables or fruit. This led to hunger during the school day and, ultimately, impacted my ability to focus in class. For other Muslim and Jewish students, the experience was similar. For those relying on school lunches for their primary meal due to financial hardships, the lack of suitable food options became a much more serious problem.

The importance of school lunches cannot be overstated. For many children from low-income families, school meals may be their most reliable source of nutrition. According to the Food Research & Action Center, over 29.9 million children participated in the National School Lunch Program during the 2021–2022 school year. Among these students, approximately 39% of public school children lack access to Zabiha halal or kosher options, forcing them to either skip meals or make do with inadequate alternatives. This creates a profound disparity in food access for religiously observant students, especially those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds who cannot afford to supplement their meals outside of school. To address this inequity. Implementing these changes will not only provide adequate nutrition to students who currently lack access to appropriate meals but will also promote religious and cultural inclusion in public institutions. This shift acknowledges that students from diverse backgrounds deserve to have their dietary needs met in the same way that their peers do. I call on the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), along with state education departments, school boards, district superintendents, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, to implement mandatory Zabiha halal and kosher options in all public schools. By collaborating with parents, students, and key decision-makers, we can ensure that menus reflect the diverse needs of students and align with national standards for inclusivity.