During the cold winter months, students want nothing more for lunch than to be able to heat up the burger or soup they brought from home. To help them enjoy these foods at an appropriate temperature, they need access to microwaves. Adding microwaves in the cafeteria would be beneficial for students in several ways.

Many students bring leftovers from dinner and want to eat them again for lunch. Having microwaves available would alleviate the stress of trying to rush to the cafeteria after class, and give these students an equal amount of time to enjoy their home cooked meals. From those who bring their own lunch, to those who wish their cafeteria meal was a bit warmer, microwaves would be a nice asset.

Financially speaking, adding microwaves in the cafeteria could save the school money and the students’ families money. If more students brought meals from home, the school wouldn’t have to spend as much on food costs. It would also save families money because they could provide a meal for their child for less money than a plate of food costs in the cafeteria. Any extra money the school saved could be used to expand menu options for students who choose to eat in the cafeteria.

Also, students who have strict diets or food allergies could have the same appliance to warm their meal as they do at home. Having microwaves available would encourage them to stay on track and continue making healthy food choices.

Some could argue that because off campus lunch is not allowed, a nice compromise would be placing microwaves in the cafeteria. Because there are already assistant principals and other faculty members who monitor each lunch, there are adults there to make sure students practice safety at all times. Teens already use microwaves at home, so they are aware of how to work the appliance and know what not to do when using them. Several middle schools in the district already have them available, so there is no reason capable high school students should not as well.

Adding microwaves will benefit the students and the school. Having the option to eat a lunch that’s hot or cold could be just the thing that could make any student or teacher’s day better.