From Cafeteria to Classroom: How DJOD is Transforming School Meals and Student Wellness

In this Cafeteria Confessions episode, we headed to Kenner, Louisiana, just outside New Orleans, to visit Dr. John Ochsner Discovery Health Sciences Academy (DJOD), a school that’s reimagining what food education can look like. 

This pre-K–8 charter school, part of the larger Discovery Schools network, is not just feeding students. They’re teaching them to think critically about their food choices and empowering them to bring that knowledge home. 

A Mission Rooted in Wellness 

From the beginning, health and wellness have been core to Discovery’s mission. Leader of Discovery Charter Schools, Dr. Patty Glaser, shared how the school’s foundation in health sciences and technology was intentionally paired with a strong emphasis on nutrition, physical activity, and overall wellness. 

“If the child's needs aren’t satisfied—if they don’t feel safe, if they’re not well-rested, or don’t feel good about themselves—we can’t even begin to address academics,” said Dr. Glaser. 

A Culinary Partnership That Grows 

Thanks to a $500,000 grant from the Emeril Lagasse Foundation, DJOD was able to build a stunning culinary garden and teaching kitchen. This space became the heartbeat of their hands-on food education program, where students from every grade level participate throughout the school year. 

Chef J and garden educator Miss Jane lead this immersive experience, which includes raised-bed gardening, composting, and cooking classes in a fully equipped kitchen classroom. Every element is designed to connect students to their food, from where it’s grown to how it fuels their bodies. 

Chef J described the philosophy as "creating adventurous eaters," emphasizing the importance of helping students build agency around food choices and learn to articulate what they like, don’t like, and why. 

From the Teaching Kitchen to the Lunch Line 

What sets DJOD apart is how they seamlessly bridge classroom learning with the cafeteria experience. Students learn about the five food groups and practice building balanced meals in the teaching kitchen, then later see those same elements in their school lunch. 

“The goal is for students to understand the 'why' behind what’s on their tray,” said Chef J. “It’s not just about serving food. It’s about empowering kids to make informed, healthy decisions.” 

Culture, Community, and Confidence 

The influence of New Orleans' vibrant food culture is ever-present at DJOD. Whether it’s gumbo, red beans and rice, or fettuccine Alfredo, food here is about connection. Students are encouraged to celebrate their cultural backgrounds and explore diverse cuisines, often inspiring recipe requests at home. 

Seventh-grader Chelsea shared how her experience in the teaching kitchen broadened her palate: “Before, I didn’t like sauces on my pasta. Now I love pesto. I’ll try anything.” 

Parents are taking notice too. Principal Nicole Morris shared that families often call to express amazement that their kids are requesting vegetables or making guacamole from scratch at home. 

A School That Leads With Heart 

Everything at DJOD, from the lunch line to the learning garden, is done with intention and pride. “Heart” is more than just a school value here, it’s a lived practice. Students feel seen, supported, and empowered. 

As Dr. Glaser put it, “It’s doable, it’s possible.” And the results speak for themselves: engaged learners, enthusiastic eaters, and a school community that truly values wellness. 

Want to hear more? Listen to Dr. John Ochsner Discovery Health Sciences Academy’s podcast on your favorite platform here. https://www.sfwgroup.org/podcast/episode-02---baton-rouge%3A-dr.-john-ochsner-discovery