Chicken Street Tacos
January 19, 2026
When students in Southern California’s San Ysidro Unified School District (SYUSD) sit down to eat in the school cafeteria, they get more than just nutritious meals made from quality ingredients. They also get the taste of home.
“A high percentage of our students are Hispanic, so we make meals that represent what they see in their communities,” said Ana Bush, production coordinator with SYUSD. “Every week, we serve different kinds of made-from-scratch tacos. We’ve done chicken, carnitas, carne asada, and a birria taco with a fresh-made sauce. It’s really exciting.“
When schools serve foods that reflect the cultures and backgrounds of the communities they serve, it creates a more inclusive environment while making students more likely to eat and enjoy their meals. At SYUSD, the result has been a healthier, happier, and more welcoming school community.
“Our students really appreciate the effort we’re making,” Ana says. “It makes me so happy to see how joyfully they take the plates and eat the meals we serve.”
Ready to cook a healthy lunch that kids can’t get enough of? Try this delicious recipe for Chicken Street Tacos from The Lunch Box.