Windsor Charter Academy’s Food Service Department believes scratch-made meals positively impact the health of all children! Across our campuses, we are committed to creating fresh, tasty, and nutritious meals through a farm-to-school model. We serve 85% scratch-made meals each day!
Our Food Services Department is committed to providing regular updates to our families about our Farm-to-School Program. We are excited to feature a new video that highlights our program and meal offerings!
What’s New: Vending Machines in the Firebird Facility
We are pleased to announce that the snack vending machine in the Firebird Facility is fully operational! Based on the frequency of restocking, it has quickly become a popular choice for convenient, nutritious snacks.
In compliance with state and federal nutrition guidelines, all items offered are Smart Snacks. We are always looking to improve our selection, so if you have any product suggestions, please email Jeannine Davison, Director of Food Services.
The vending machine accepts multiple payment methods, including cash, Linq Connect meal accounts, credit cards, and Apple Pay.
Thank you for your continued support and feedback. We look forward to providing you with a variety of healthy snack options!
Important Information about Free Meals from the Vending Machine
Students are eligible to receive one free breakfast and one free lunch each day, which can be obtained from either the lunchroom or the vending machine. Please note - if a student selects a free breakfast or lunch from the vending machine, they will not be able to receive another free meal from the lunch line that day, as the system tracks each meal selection.
Payment Options
For added convenience, the vending machine accepts the following payment methods:
Apple Pay
Credit Card
Cash is not accepted for meal purchases.
Authorization and Charging Process
The vending machines are equipped with smart technology to ensure accurate charging:
If a product does not dispense, the machine will not charge your account.
When using a credit card or Apple Pay, the system temporarily authorizes $5.00 to $10.00 to verify sufficient funds. This amount will be refunded at the end of the day.
Connectivity and Technical Information
If the vending machine is unable to connect to the internet, it will not be able to access the Linq Connect meal account system.
The credit card reader uses cellular service and will continue to function even if the internet connection is unstable.
Troubleshooting and Assistance
Please do not shake the machine if a product is stuck and does not dispense.
Mrs. James has a vending machine key and can assist if she is available.
If Mrs. James is unavailable, please email Ms. Davison at jeannine.davison@windsorcharteracademy.org.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation. If you have any further questions or concerns, feel free to contact us!
Vendor Spotlight: Colorado Custom Meat Company
We are proud to partner with Colorado Custom Meats Company, based in Kersey, CO, to provide high-quality, locally sourced ground beef for our meals. This partnership allows us to serve fresh, farm-to-school meals to our community while supporting a local small business.
To learn more about Colorado Custom Meats Company and their commitment to quality and sustainability, please visit their website.
Monthly Recipe
Garlic Chicken Alfredo with Sauteed Vegetables
This is a simple and delicious recipe that can be a Keto meal served with zucchini pasta or, more traditionally, served with linguini.
Ingredients:
Alfredo Sauce
8 oz half-n-half, but heavy whipping cream can be an alternative option
5 to 6 oz parmesan cheese
4 tablespoons butter
1/4 teaspoon finely minced garlic or dry garlic
Pinch of salt to taste
Garlic Chicken
1.5 to 2 pounds of chicken breast, diced in 1-inch cubes. It serves best if the chicken is never frozen.
5 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
2 teaspoons lemon pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 to 2 teaspoons salt to taste
1 tablespoon red pepper
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
3 tablespoons olive oil to sauté
Sauteed Vegetables
A variety of vegetables can be used with this dish, so be creative! Some ideas include:
Broccoli
Carrots
Mushrooms
Red onions
Red peppers
Asparagus
Zucchini noodles
Cooking Instructions:
Alfredo sauce
Melt butter in a stock pot. Once it is melted, add the cream, parmesan cheese, and garlic. Bring the sauce to a boil, stirring constantly. Once it boils, bring the temperature down to a medium boil while still stirring constantly for about 5 minutes or until the sauce is a smooth consistency. If the sauce is grainy, use the immersion blender while still simmering on the stove.
Chicken
Sauté garlic in olive oil, then add chicken and the rest of the spices and sauté until golden brown. Do not overcook.
Vegetables
Roast or sauté vegetables in olive oil and a dash of salt and pepper. Serve on the side or on the pasta layered with the chicken and Alfredo sauce.