Vending machines close during school hours
February 7, 2023
Valley’s vending machines are now closed to students for good during school. Hours have recently been adjusted in accordance with the “Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010,” making machines open exclusively before 9:25 a.m. and after 4:20 p.m.
Created over a decade ago, the “Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010” was campaigned by Michelle Obama and signed by Barack Obama to enhance nutritional value in school-served foods and combat childhood obesity.
The act regulates school lunches and provides healthier choices for students, requiring schools to follow current Dietary Guidelines for Americans for foods served outside school dining programs.
The majority of the sugary snacks and beverages sold by the vending machines did not comply with these dietary guidelines, resulting in the machines’ closing.
While the vending machines are closed, the school cafeteria sells a variety of chips and drinks like Caprisuns and water bottles. Before and after school, however, the vending machines will be open.
