Around Etowah, changes from previous years are everywhere. With new administration, students are learning to follow new rules and work on different schedules. Even in the cafeteria, changes are being made to add more options to students’ lunches.

With the addition of a snack cart at the main cafeteria, new options are available for purchase. Fruit cups, crackers, and a la carte options are available for those who want to eat a full lunch or grab a quick bite. A new grill line has also been added offering a premium chicken option every other day.

“We have also added the kiosk out here, and we’re calling it ‘The Eagle’s Nest.’ It’s easier for some kids to get to instead of going in the line,” Angie Kelly, assistant manager of the cafeteria, said.

The addition of fruit slushies to the cafeteria’s menu first happened last year. Signs advertising the drinks can be found all around the campus, with the blue flavor being a popular choice. This year, parfaits seem to be the new hit.

“A lot of kids are buying the parfaits because they’re quick,” Kelly said, “We also started adding the Uncrustable PB&J.”

For many students, the changes come as a welcome surprise. Having more options available at lunch not only helps the school with sales, but also motivates students to purchase and eat a healthy lunch. Low-fat and low-sugar offerings are among those being sold in the cafeteria.

For others, the addition of the lunch cart is seen as unnecessary when the many of the offerings can be found in other spots around campus already.

“I think the lunch cart is a bad idea. I think the vending machine makes more sense,” Sean Sapiro, sophmore, said.

Although similar snacks may be found in vending machines, the price is usually lower at The Eagle’s Nest, and students can charge to their lunch accounts.

“I think they are really good because sometimes I need an on-the-go snack and they provide healthy options… I see a lot of students there, so I think they are beneficial,” Sarah Oburu, freshman, said about the a la cart options.

For students, the addition of snacks to the cafeteria is a wonderful new freedom. Having the ability to choose which healthy components students want in their meal or snacks is a great way to mix up lunch.