What is Crunch Day? A fun, healthy celebration dedicated to students creating a big “crunch” as they bite into their apples simultaneously. Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) students and staff were on fall break during National School Lunch Week on October 13-17. As a result, MSCS schools are celebrating this week, including “Crunch Day” events.
At Westside Elementary School, MSCS Nutrition Services visited Pre-K and kindergarten classes on Thursday, October 23, during their lunch period. Students participated in “Crunch Day” by taking a synchronized bite of their apples. Westside Principal Rusette Jackson shared, “Having a nutritious meal sets our students up to have a successful day – starting with great food everyday.”
This marks Principal Jackson’s second year leading Westside and her 10th year as a principal. She previously spent eight years working at the District. Looking ahead, she’s excited to launch several after-school clubs at Westside next week, including gardening, chess, and more.
Anthony Terrell, affectionately known as “Chef T,” is a culinary specialist with MSCS. Speaking about the event, he said, “We’re going to do a big countdown and we’re going to see who can give us the loudest crunch on an apple.”
Kaci Foster, Special Project Coordinator with Coordinated School Health, added, “Crunch Day helps students recognize the importance of making healthy choices and making healthy decisions with their food.”
Dr. Erin Luster, Executive Director of Student Experiences at MSCS, expressed her enthusiasm as well, saying, “We are excited about apple crunch day.”
Crunch Day at Westside Elementary highlights the District’s commitment to promoting healthy eating habits and student engagement through fun, interactive events. By encouraging children to enjoy nutritious foods like apples, MSCS reinforces the importance of wellness in education – one big, crunchy bite at a time.
If you have a story about a MSCS student, teacher, or school to highlight, please email us at communications@scsk12.org. Include the school name, story details, and an SCSK12.ORG email for follow-up.