Jason Avant and Sophie Fontano
Image Credits: Ashley DeJesus
By: Sophia Braida
On Thursday, September 25, 10 students and faculty members from Wallenpaupack had the opportunity to visit Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, the home stadium of the Philadelphia Eagles. Tristan Braxton, Christopher Collins, Abigail Cykosky, Ashley DeJesus, Jacob Foley, Sophie Fontano, and Jamie Stiner had the honor of representing Wallenpaupack. This special event was part of the Governor’s School Breakfast Challenge; an annual competition that encourages schools across PA to boost student breakfast participation by offering healthier and more nutritional breakfast options.
Wallenpaupack earned its invitation by ranking in the top 10 out of 59 competing schools. This achievement was built on their success from last year when they received first place. To qualify, schools had to meet specific requirements, such as giving an alternative way for students to get breakfast like the breakfast cart, introducing new breakfast items (like Wallenpaupack’s Buck Wrap), boosting participation numbers, actively promoting breakfast, serving a hot item, and including locally sourced foods. Wallenpaupack not only met but exceeded these criteria and the lunch staff consistently dedicates themselves to providing more nutritional and fresh options.
At Lincoln Financial Field, the group enjoyed a full day of activities. They toured various areas across the Eagles’ stadium including the locker room, training room, the Eagle’s tunnel, and the press interview zone. The students met Pennsylvania’s Acting Secretary of Education Dr. Carrie Rowe, former Philadelphia Eagles player Jason Avant, the Eagles Cheerleaders, the team mascot Swoop, and a representative from the American Dairy Association.
Students from attending districts received paddles to provide their feedback on their own school’s breakfast system, giving them a voice in shaping better meal options. The event also celebrated cafeteria employees, who often work behind the scenes, giving them well deserved recognition for their hard work and dedication.
