At Rosemead Education Center (REC), every child receives breakfast, lunch, and an afternoon snack as part of their enrollment. Meals are included at no extra cost for all families, regardless of tuition source.

CACFP-Enrolled: What That Means for Your Child

REC is formally enrolled in the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), a federal program administered by the USDA that sets nutrition standards for meals served in child care settings.

Being CACFP-enrolled means:

Our menus follow federal nutrition guidelines. Every meal must include the right balance of protein, grains, fruits, vegetables, and milk, calibrated for children’s age groups. These are not suggestions; they are requirements we are audited against.

Meals emphasize whole grains, lean proteins, and fresh produce. The CACFP meal pattern standards were updated to align with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, limiting added sugars and saturated fats while encouraging variety in vegetables and fruits.

Portion sizes are age-appropriate. Children in different age groups (1-2 years, 3-5 years) receive portions calibrated to their nutritional needs, not one-size-fits-all servings.

What a Typical Day of Meals Looks Like

Breakfast: May include whole grain cereal or toast, fresh fruit, and milk.

Lunch: A balanced meal with a protein source (such as chicken, beef, or beans), a grain, vegetables, fruit, and milk. Some examples from our kitchen: handmade beef burgers with fresh salad, chicken with rice and vegetables, or pasta with a meat sauce and seasonal fruit.

Afternoon snack: A lighter combination such as crackers with cheese, fruit, or yogurt.

Menus rotate regularly to provide variety. We prepare meals on-site in our own kitchen, giving us direct control over ingredients and preparation.

Our Approach to Food

We believe that the meals children eat during the day are part of their education, not just fuel. When children consistently eat well-prepared, varied, nutritious food in a calm group setting, they develop healthier eating habits that carry forward.

We also believe parents should be able to see what their children eat. We regularly share photos of our meals on our social media pages so families can see exactly what is being served.

Meals Are Included for All Students

Whether your family pays tuition directly or is enrolled through a tuition assistance program, your child receives the same meals. There is no separate meal plan or reduced menu. Every child eats the same food, at the same table, prepared in the same kitchen.

Questions About Our Meals

If your child has allergies, dietary restrictions, or specific nutritional needs, please contact us. We work with families individually to accommodate children’s needs within the CACFP framework.

Call us: (626) 572-8201 Visit us: 2662 Walnut Grove Ave, Rosemead, CA 91770 Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

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