MCCSC Earns USDA Gold Award for Summer Meal Program

MCCSC Department of Child Nutrition staff serve lunch at Templeton Elementary School – Courtesy Photo

Written from press release

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. — The Monroe County Community School Corporation has been recognized with a Gold “Turnip the Beet Award” from the U.S. Department of Agriculture for its summer food program, making it the only school corporation in Indiana to receive the top-level honor.

The award recognizes schools and organizations that go above and beyond in implementing the USDA Summer Food Service Program, providing children with meals that are both nutritious and appealing during the summer months.

MCCSC’s Child Nutrition Department has participated in the program for more than 20 years, offering free breakfasts and lunches at select schools each summer. In 2024, the district served more than 10,000 meals. No registration or ID is required, and all children 18 and under are welcome.

“We know that many families in our community do not have access to meals during the summer, so programs such as the USDA Summer Food Service Program are critical,” MCCSC Superintendent Dr. Markay Winston said. She credited Child Nutrition Director Matt Tomrell and his team for ensuring the program’s success.

Tomrell and his staff were recognized during the school board’s August meeting.

In Indiana, only seven organizations received the USDA award this year. MCCSC was one of two awarded gold, along with Ray Bird Ministries/Camp Ray Bird in South Bend. Other school districts received silver or bronze-level recognition.

More information on the Turnip the Beet Award is available at fns.usda.gov/sfsp/turnip-the-beet

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