Letter: School lunch standards

I was recently intrigued by the article "Students, parents, educators displeased with new school lunch standards" (Sept. 27). The article covered discontent with new school lunch nutritional policies pushed onto local school districts through the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010.

Despite creating a one size fits all nutritional standard for students across the nation, the bill had unanimous support in the Senate. With the help of Utah's Jim Matheson, the bill also passed the House of Representatives.

Most would agree the general goal of healthier eating habits among children is admirable. However, we as citizens ought to pause to question the wisdom in allowing a single federal department to dictate the types and portions of food allowed locally in our schools.

The nutritional needs of students are as diverse as their circumstances, communities and cultures. Local school districts are in a better position to meet these needs while promoting healthy eating habits. Given the diversity of our students, we need more flexibility in schools not less.

Jonathan Ash

Clearfield