Irene Vargas
Director, Nutrition Services  
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1240 Cooper Ave. • Salinas, CA 93905
(831) 753-5776 • FAX (831) 753-5784

Our Mission…

The mission of the AUSD Nutrition Department is to encourage increased consumption of fruits and vegetables and physical activity of students and their families. The school environment is one of several settings that can influence children's food choices and eating habits. Schools can ensure that the available food, salad bars options are healthy and help young people eat food that meets dietary recommendations for fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nonfat or low-fat dairy products. Establishing healthy behaviors during childhood is easier and more effective than trying to change unhealthy behaviors during adulthood. Schools play a critical role in promoting the health and safety of young people and helping them establish lifelong healthy behavior patterns. Healthy eating helps prevent high cholesterol and high blood pressure and helps reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes. Gardens are located at various sites and the community is invited to participate.