Notre Dame Virtual School’s January theme invites students to recognize the power of everyday choices — especially food choices — to care for their health, their communities, and our shared planet. Small actions, taken consistently, make a real difference.
The Power of One Choice
Students are invited to make one simple plant‑forward choice this week. This is not about perfection. It is about awareness, intention, and hope.
Choose one:
• Add one extra vegetable to a meal
• Choose a meat‑free lunch or dinner once this week
• Try one new vegetable you have never eaten before
Student Video (UN ActNow)
Eat More Plants — UN ActNow Climate Campaign
Featuring Chef Arthur Potts Dawson
YouTube link:
This short, upbeat video explains how choosing more plant‑based foods helps both people and the planet. It is suitable for classroom viewing and discussion.
Plant‑Forward Menu: Simple, Real Choices
Breakfast
• Overnight oats with berries and chia seeds
• Smoothie with spinach, banana, and peanut butter
• Whole‑grain toast with avocado and tomato
Lunch
• Rainbow salad with chickpeas, carrots, cucumbers, and tahini
• Veggie wrap with hummus, spinach, bell peppers, and shredded carrots
• Grain bowl with quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, and broccoli
Snacks
• Apple slices with nut butter
• Carrot sticks with hummus
• Trail mix with nuts and dried fruit
Dinner
• Vegetable stir‑fry over brown rice
• Lentil tacos with avocado and salsa
• Spaghetti with tomato basil sauce and sautéed zucchini
Quick Reflection (Optional)
- What plant‑based food did you choose?
• How did it make you feel?
• What small choice might you repeat next week?
Looking towards Valentines Day – Veggie Trays
Eat your veggies. Care for creation. Act now — one choice at a time.
Your family & friends will fall in love with this Valentine’s Day Veggie Tray! One of the best parts of creating this party tray is being able to exchange any of the vegetables for your favorite picks! Choose cucumbers instead of green bell pepper or carrots instead of yellow bell pepper. If you desire, this tray can even be made with your favorite fruit picks — the possibilities are endless! https://www.theproducemoms.com/valentines-day-veggie-tray/
