Pine-Richland Transforms School Dining by Putting Students First

Culinary

The Chartwells K12 team at Pine-Richland School District is turning student feedback into fresh dining experiences and measurable growth in meal participation

When Pine-Richland School District in Gibsonia, Pennsylvania, transitioned to Chartwells K12 in July 2025, the district set out to reimagine the cafeteria as a place students would be excited to visit each day. The goal was to increase meal participation while creating a more welcoming, personalized experience shaped by student feedback.

Bringing Student Ideas to Life

The Chartwells K12 team quickly turned feedback into action, introducing a made-to-order deli station where students can customize wraps and sandwiches with fresh ingredients. Other updates ranged from bringing cheese back to salads to developing the PR Café, featuring iced coffee and a frozen yogurt station.

By responding to what students want, the team is creating a school dining experience that feels fresh, relevant, and more like the concepts students enjoy outside of school.

Participation on the Rise

The changes are making an impact. Since Chartwells K12 partnered with Pine-Richland, breakfast participation has increased 10% and lunch participation has increased 39%, alongside improved student satisfaction.

For Pine-Richland’s 4,585 students, the results show what’s possible when great food, choice, and student input come together. By continuing to listen and evolve, Chartwells K12 and Pine-Richland are building a dining program that reflects the students it serves.

Ready to transform your school dining experience? Click here to connect with our team and learn how Chartwells K12 can turn student feedback into experiences that boost participation and keep students coming back for more.