Student Nutrition FAQ's

How does the Computerized Cafeteria Account system work?
The system works just like a checking account. Deposits are made to the student’s individual account and purchases are deducted from the balance. Each student is issued a personal identification number (PIN) containing 5 digits. 

During meal time students in the 3^rd-12^th grade enter their ID number on a keypad, which accesses their account. The student’s name and balance are displayed on the cashier’s screen and the purchases are deducted from the account balance. Students in the PK-2^nd grade have ID badges or a roster per home room at the cashier’s station. The cashier scans their card or number and the purchase is deducted from their account. 

 How are deposits made to a student’s account?
For parents to deposit funds into a student’s account:
The Cafeteria Manager collects deposits in the morning before school starts in the Cafeteria.  Cash may also be placed on the student’s account during the lunch period by the student or parent. 

How do students know their balance?
Students will be notified by the cashier when their balance falls below $3.50.  In grades PK-2^nd a note is also sent home with the student.  Students may also check their balance by typing in the PIN or scanning their badge at any cash register station.

Is charging allowed?
In grades PK-12, a student may charge three plate lunches if there are insufficient funds in the account to cover the purchase. Ala carte items cannot be purchased without sufficient funds.  Additional purchases are not allowed until there is a positive balance in the student’s account.  An alternative meal of a cheese sandwich with milk will be offered to the student at no charge.

What happens to the money in my child’s account at the end of the school year or if my child transfers to another PTISD school?
Money left in an account at the end of the school year will be available for that student’s use in the next school year at any school within the district.  A negative balance will also carry forward to the next school year or school.  If a student should move during the school year, the parent can go to the student’s school and a refund will be made.

Why are snack items offered at lunch?
The Snack Bar is an alternative meal offered to the students.  Snacks may also be purchased in graded 5^th -12^th.  If parents want restrictions placed on their child’s purchases, they can contact the Food Service Director or Cafeteria Manager and have the student’s account restricted.

Where can I find information concerning school parties?
Please refer to the new Texas Department of Agriculture policies and information at www.squaremeals.org

How can I find out what my child is eating at school?
To obtain this information:
Request a print-out from your Food Service Director or Cafeteria Manager.

What is the Pine Tree ISD Food Service Dept. doing to provide nutritious meals to students?
- All plate lunch meals are analyzed and provide 1/3 RDA for calories, protein, calcium, Vitamin A, Vitamin C and iron.
- All plate lunch meals contain less than 30% calories from fat and less than 10% of calories for
- Fruits served are fresh or canned in light syrup.
- In grades PK-9^th all food items are baked.  The only frying done is at the High School and this will be eliminated when the new High School Cafeteria is opened in December.
- Low fat 2% white and 1% chocolate and strawberry milk are offered at all schools.   - The Student Nutrition Department participates in the Texas Farm to School Program which brings fresh picked Texas produce to schools.