Back by popular demand, Killeen ISD School Nutrition hosted its second annual student food show on Thursday at Harker Heights High School, which provides a platform for students to taste-test all new menu items and weigh in on the decision-making process for next year’s menu selections.
The event was met with excitement as elementary to high school students alike flooded the halls decked with veggie-inspired friendship bracelets and VIP badges, eager to sample items like spicy grilled cheese sandwiches, pink pineapples, and walking tacos.
Welcomed by School Nutrition staff with cheers and upbeat tunes like, “Shake it Off” and “Anti Hero”, students embarked on a taste-testing journey, exploring vendor tables brimming with mouthwatering options. The vibe was infectious, the music on fire, as students cast their votes for their top picks.
Stopping by to check out the Food Eras show was the Mayor of Killeen, Debbie Nash King, and Board of Trustees Vice President, Susan M. Jones. Both leaders took the time to chat with students and taste-test their favorites for themselves like Chef DJ’s delicious salad made with True Harvest lettuce, strawberries, blueberries, and sunflower seeds. 
Students were encouraged to “Speak Now” as school nutrition employees circulated throughout the event and asked for their input on the samples.
Before it was “Time to Go”, students dropped their tickets into the tastiest treat’s bucket to vote for their favorites that they would like to see on the menu next school year.
Later this spring, nutrition leaders will select the menu choices for the 2024-2025 school year with the samplers’ votes at the forefront of their minds.
Beyond the delicious eats, the event provided a sense of unity and empowerment among students, highlighting their role in shaping the school's future menu and adding just a little bit of “shimmer” along the way.
It’s giving Taylor Swift, it’s giving friendship bracelets, it’s giving Eras Tour, it’s giving KISD kids winning, “All Too Well”.
