As a pescatarian, I find myself packing lunch every day because my school doesn't provide meals that align with my dietary restrictions. This is not just about me; there are many students across the country who face similar challenges due to their unique dietary needs. Whether it's vegetarianism, veganism, gluten intolerance, or religious dietary guidelines - our schools should be equipped to cater for all.

According to the School Nutrition Association, “One in eight children in America live in households without consistent access to adequate food.” And while it’s great that schools provide lunch, it makes it harder if a child has an intolerance or religious dietary restrictions. Many people at my school pack lunch nearly everyday, since, while there are two options, both may contain pork.

While it is true that schools may offer different meals to students for medical or religious reasons, there is no other options for children who practice vegetarianism, pescatarianism, or veganism. This forces them to pack their own lunch, and makes the school responsible for not providing them with adequate meals. 

The National School Lunch Program serves over 30 million children each day (USDA, 2020). It is crucial that this program and others like it take into account the diverse dietary requirements of today's students. By doing so, we can ensure that all students have access to nutritious meals that meet their specific needs.

We call on education authorities at all levels - local school boards up through state departments of education and federal agencies - to mandate changes in school meal programs so they better accommodate different dietary restrictions. Sign this petition if you believe everyone deserves access to suitable meals at school.