On the MacArthur Campus, students might think that the school lunch does not offer a variety or provide a filling enough lunch. However, some existing solutions could be to enable either vending machines or the student store during lunchtimes for those willing to pay for food different from the usual school lunch. 

Office Manager Mrs. Liza Gomez said, “I don’t think having vending machines or the student store open will affect the school’s finances that much, but I still wouldn’t like it because the students will want sugary snacks, it will be a distraction, and there will be a long line.” 

Students can also no longer have food dropped off on the MacArthur campus by either their parents or Uber Eats in the front office. This was a rule made in the 2023-2024 school year. Because of this, vending machines and having the student store available to students during lunch can be a solution for the staff, as well. 

“The trash problem is going to get even worse unless there is a trash can right next to it or near it, but I’d like to have vending machines for when I’m hungry and thirsty, like right now. I’d really like to stay here instead of having to go all the way outside to buy food since it’s more convenient that way,” said Custodian Mr. Mario Torres.

Current school lunches are being provided for free by the Santa Ana Unified School District for all students. This school lunch ensures that the nutrition standard is met for students with the right foods like protein, vegetables, fruit, juice, milk, and more. 

Vending machines are approved by eighth grader Mia G., who said, “The school lunch is decent, but vending machines would be an improvement, especially to school funds and raising money like they always talk about. Kids want more than apple juice and milk, so vending machines can offer other drinks.” 

Before 2012, vending machines were available to all students with Powerade and water. One reason they were removed was because of district rules that state that having vending machines or our MacArthur Student Store open would be competing against school lunch which is provided by the district themselves.