2006-11-23 / Schools

NutriKids adds hassle for hungry students

Elizabeth Lundy Head Photographer

Science teacher Stephanie Davis checks in freshman Katie Hitch at the desk located at the school's main entrance. Science teacher Stephanie Davis checks in freshman Katie Hitch at the desk located at the school's main entrance. Students returned to school this September to a new cafeteria and a new lunch system.

The NutriKids system, used in schools across the country, allows students to purchase daily lunches using a prepaid account. Although the intention of adopting this

system may have been to buy lunch with ease, many students feel it will have the opposite effect.

"It will take a longer time because I can't remember an ID number," said junior Cameron Munger.

Junior Jess Shugrue agreed. "It's a dumb idea. I think it's easier to use money."

Senior Susan Konola said she had valid arguments against NutriKids.

"The system could crash and slow down the line. Already the people who punch in their numbers take too long. And what about those dingbats who forget their ID numbers?" she said.

Students can still buy lunches with cash, but letters sent home this summer urged everyone to conform to this system. When students receive identification cards this month, they will be expected to swipe the card through the NutriKids machine, then punch in their ID number to subtract money from an account.

Only time will tell how effectively the system will protect students from theft.

"I don't know how it's going to work. A stolen ID card could mean someone could steal from your account. It's safer and a lot easier to use money," said Konola.

Students who have used ID numbers to buy lunch can vouch for these concerns. "I've already tried the system and I don't know if it really protects my privacy," said junior Kelley Groll.

Other students offered ideas that would help protect accounts.

"People should have to provide additional identification when buying lunch to insure it's actually their card," said sophomore Mackenzie Smith.

Unfortunately, doing so would worsen the situation since showing another ID would take even more time.

Like with most changes in life, the switch to the NutriKids system proves past debate. Most colleges use a similar system to purchase meals in a dining hall, so students should realize Wachusett has prepared them for the future.

If, however, the new lunch system proves too overwhelming, don't forget the classic option of packing a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.

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