We are excited to announce that Ruediger Elementary has been chosen as the first elementary to participate in the Wellness in the Schools Program in the State of Florida. Griffin Middle School, one of our feeder sites, will also be participating as the only middle school in Florida. With this program we have a Full-Time Chef, Michelle Ross, who will be with us this year. We look forward to our menu changes, nutrition education and opportunities for family involvement!

Wellness in the Schools (WITS) operates the Cook for Kids program in public school cafeterias and classrooms to promote healthy eating and combat childhood obesity. WITS invests in training culinary graduates who work as partners with cafeteria staff in preparing daily scratch-cooked meals and educating families about the importance of eating healthy food. WITS cooks also teach children and their families how to cook healthy, delicious, and affordable recipes featuring whole, unprocessed foods through our WITS Labs, a series of seasonal cooking classes.

As a member of First Lady Michelle Obama’s Chefs Move to Schools planning team, WITS realizes the importance of engaging the culinary community, and partners with local chefs and restaurants who inspire students, lead special events, and act as wellness ambassadors.