Charles Rawls, Director of Child Nutrition for Splendora Independent School District, is pleased to announce that the Texas Department of Agriculture has awarded the district's Child Nutrition Department the 2026 USDA Foods Challenge Strategic Menu Planning and Superior Meal Service Award.

The USDA Foods Challenge recognizes school nutrition programs that demonstrate excellence in menu planning, efficient use of USDA Foods, and a strong commitment to serving high-quality, nutritious meals to students. The award highlights districts that successfully balance federal nutrition standards with innovative meal service and student satisfaction.

The Texas Department of Agriculture and the USDA continue to encourage school districts across the nation to strengthen child nutrition programs by offering healthy, appealing meal options and improving customer service. Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller has consistently recognized the dedication of school nutrition professionals who work daily to provide safe, nutritious, and high-quality meals for students.

"I am very pleased to see our district recognized and to receive this award," said Charles Rawls, Director of Child Nutrition. "Meeting USDA nutrition guidelines while also meeting the expectations of our students can sometimes be challenging. However, we remain committed to providing meals that students enjoy while delivering the very best possible foodservice customer experience. It is rewarding to have the Texas Department of Agriculture acknowledge those efforts."