‘Meatless Mondays’ will be implemented at 15 schools in Brooklyn next year. Five public schools in the city already serve vegetarian meals every day of the week.
Children at the school collectively decided that they wanted to “live healthier” and do something “good for the earth”.
In a visit to P.S. 1 in Sunset Park, Brooklyn’s Mayor, de Blasio, told students “I am very proud of all the students, I’m proud of everyone here for their decision”.
De Blasio also stated that Gracie Mansion, the Mayor’s residence, will be participating in Meatless Mondays. His two children have also been “strict vegetarians” since middle school.
The Department of Education has supported this incentive. The 15 Brooklyn schools will join 5 others that already eat plant-based meals every day of the week. The cafeterias also offer several vegan options.
Sunset Park’s P.S. 1, Bergen Elementary School, was the first school in Brooklyn to go completely vegetarian after the students expressed interest in eating healthier.
The improved menus include spinach wraps, potato wedges, zucchini parmigiana, bagels, black bean quesadillas, crispy tofu and vegetarian chili.
PS 1 third-grader Andy Salas said, “As a school, we decided on an all-vegetarian lunch menu”. He believes more schools should implement the change.
Currently, children don’t eat enough vegetables. Schools Chancellor Carmen Farina called it “a movement” that is “long overdue.”
Student Isabella Esquiaqui said, “First you imagine it, then you do it”.
