The "One Lunch" Menu: Improved Learning, Collaboration and Community

About the Program

Category: Children and Youth (Best in Category)

Year: 2017

The One Lunch program at Deep Run High School in Henrico County, Virginia allows all students to have access to a 65-minute multipurpose lunch period. During lunch, students may eat, get remediation help, attend club meetings, complete makeup work, and participate in intramural sports. Teachers have an opportunity for inter/intradepartmental common planning. This model is much different than the traditional lunch period that is common in most comprehensive school settings. The change has altered the culture of the school by allowing more time for students to gather and collaborate in an environment resembling a workplace or college campus. This program enhances 21st-century skills in a variety of ways. The program enhances students’ skills in the areas of responsibility, time management, collaboration, communication, grouping, soft skills, and more. One Lunch better prepares students for life beyond high school. It also increases relationship-building amongst the faculty, staff and students.