New energy-efficient equipment enhances student meals and hands-on learning at BVT

At Blackstone Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School (BVT), every new piece of equipment is more than just an upgrade—it's an opportunity to learn, innovate, and grow. Thanks to a Healthy Meals Incentives grant from Action for Healthy Kids, the Food Services program is now equipped with a state-of-the-art walk-in cooler and freezer tailored to its unique needs. This energy-efficient unit not only boosts safety and efficiency in their kitchen but also allows them to store fresh, local ingredients that support healthier meals for its students.

“With an increase in scratch cooking and the ability to store more fresh ingredients, we’re able to prepare restaurant-quality meals that are both nutritious and delicious,” said Chef Eric Carlson, Director of Food Services. “Offering students a wide variety of healthy options supports both learning and lifelong wellness.” Working alongside our dedicated Food Services team, Chef Carlson and Nutritionist Lisa Ciarametaro ensure that every school lunch includes detailed nutritional information to help students and staff make informed food choices.

Chef Eric Carlson, Director of Food Services at BVT, is standing in the walk-in cooler, holding a package of milk and a whole pineapple. Courtesy photo

The benefits of this grant go beyond the cafeteria. Lincoln Shaw, a junior in the Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration (HVAC&R) program, helped install the new system alongside instructor Matthew LaJoie. From setting up refrigeration units to installing ductwork and electrical components, Lincoln gained invaluable hands-on experience with commercial-grade equipment.

“HVAC&R technicians are often called on to work with walk-in coolers and freezers in commercial environments,” said LaJoie. “This was a perfect opportunity for a student to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world setting—right here on our campus.”

As a Healthy Meals Incentives grantee, BVT is proud to partner with the USDA and Action for Healthy Kids to strengthen its school meal program. Thanks to grant funding, in-house expertise, and student involvement, the Food Services program continues to deliver high-quality, nutritious, and cost-effective meals to its school community—one scratch-cooked dish at a time.

Whether it's a freshly made blueberry crisp, salad, or wrap, our talented food services team creates the food that students enjoy. Courtesy photo

Submitted by Blackstone Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School

About Blackstone Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School (BVT):

Blackstone Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School serves the towns of Bellingham, Blackstone, Douglas, Grafton, Hopedale, Mendon, Milford, Millbury, Millville, Northbridge, Sutton, Upton, and Uxbridge. Located in the heart of the Blackstone Valley, BVT creates a positive learning community that prepares students for personal and professional success in an internationally competitive society through a fusion of rigorous vocational, technical, and academic skills. For more information about the school, visit www.valleytech.k12.ma.us.