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First School Pilot: Lincoln Elementary
By Vegan Kitchen Team
We’re thrilled to announce our first school partnership: a 4-week pilot program with Lincoln Elementary School, serving approximately 200 students.
The setup
Working with Lincoln’s nutrition team, we developed a rotating menu that introduces students to plant-based options gradually:
- Week 1: Familiar favorites with a twist (veggie tacos, pasta primavera)
- Week 2: Global flavors (Thai peanut noodles, Mediterranean bowls)
- Week 3: Build-your-own stations (burrito bowls, grain bowls)
- Week 4: Student favorites from weeks 1-3
What we’re measuring
Beyond the obvious question of “do kids eat it?”, we’re tracking:
- Plate waste: How much food ends up in the trash?
- Participation rates: Do students choose the vegan option when alternatives are available?
- Feedback: What do students, teachers, and parents think?
Early observations
After the first week, we’re seeing positive signs:
“The tacos were so good! Can we have them again?” — 3rd grader
The nutrition team has been an incredible partner, helping us adapt serving sizes and presentation based on what works in their cafeteria.
What’s next
We’ll share a full report after the pilot concludes. If you’re a school interested in exploring a similar program, let’s talk.