Milk has long been a familiar part of school meals for generations, nourishing students during the school day and contributing to healthier communities. At the same time, many children still fall short on key nutrients like calcium, vitamin D and potassium, making the role of milk in schools more important than ever.
School milk matters because it ensures students receive essential nutrients critical for growth, development and well-being. At Dairy Council of California, we believe every child should have access to nutritious foods, including milk and dairy, that help meet nutrient needs and support lifelong healthy eating patterns.
This year, schools have more flexibility thanks to The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, in effect since June 2026, which expands the milk options schools can offer by allowing whole and reduced-fat 2% milk options in addition to low-fat and fat-free options previously allowed. All types of milk provide the same essential nutrients, and added choice helps schools meet student preferences while upholding nutrition standards.
While access to nutritious foods, including dairy foods, is essential, access alone isn’t enough. Nutrition education helps children understand the connection between food and health and empowers them to make informed choices throughout their lives.
With the school year in full swing, we celebrate the dairy farmers, processors, distributors, school nutrition professionals, educators and community partners who help bring milk to students every day. Together, we can elevate health and strengthen schools and thriving communities.
Sincerely,
Amy DeLisio, MPH, RDN
World School Milk Day, observed on the last Wednesday in September, honors the role school milk programs play in supporting student nutrition, learning and well-being around the world. For this year's observance in late September, Dairy Council of California provided resources to schools highlighting milk's role in nourishing students, including a downloadable toolkit, educational materials, videos and sample social media content to celebrate. These efforts strengthen partnerships and reinforce dairy’s role in nourishing future generations.
Perspective from a California Dairy Farmer and Local School Board Member
“Knowing that milk from our dairy community helps nourish students is something we take great pride in. Every carton served at school reflects the dedication of farmers, processors, distributors and school nutrition professionals working toward a common goal of elevating children’s health. We're encouraged by opportunities that give schools more flexibility to meet the needs of their students while continuing to make milk an important part of the school day.”
-Anthony Agueda, Third-Generation Dairy Farmer, Alberto Dairy
