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Fairfax County students sampled 24 possible cafeteria offerings in February, casting votes that could influence breakfast and lunch menus throughout the district during the 2025-26 school year.

The second annual Future of FCPS Student Food Show welcomed students from eight high schools, eight middle schools and 12 elementary schools to the Westfields Marriott in Chantilly. Participants evaluated the foods for taste, nutrition and appeal through surveys that the Office of Food and Nutrition Services will use when considering menu changes.

The selections blended a variety of flavors and cultural influences. Students tried sesame ginger vinaigrette noodle salad, pumpkin pie applesauce, breakfast tacos with veggie sausage, Thai chili bowls, Hawaiian hot honey beef sliders and mega mac and cheese. A new offering called “Fairfax Sauce” also debuted.

Megan Sawant, a senior at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology and the district board’s 54th student representative, attended the event and interviewed other participants about school meals.

Gabrielle, a freshman at the school, said food helps students get through their days, complete tests and meet expectations. Whether meals come from home or the cafeteria, she said, student feedback tells administrators what young people want on their plates.

Micah, a sixth grader at Cunningham Park Elementary, said having a voice in school food choices felt rewarding.

Other students emphasized that those eating the meals should help determine what is served. Kayla, a Langley High School sophomore, said gathering student reviews makes sense because students ultimately eat the lunches. Lorelei, a junior at Langley, said students should have a say in their nutrition.

Participants also valued the opportunity to try unfamiliar dishes without judgment and encounter foods inspired by different cultures. A Glasgow Middle School student said sampling new items, representing the school and seeing culturally diverse choices made the event exciting.

The food show reflected the district’s broader effort to incorporate student perspectives and help young people feel safe, supported, included and empowered. One participant said attending offered a chance to help make a difference.