School of Thought Podcast presented by NCEED
School of Thought is a podcast by Morgan State's National Center for the Elimination of Education Disparity (NCEED) that connects community voices with research expertise to explore the questions people are asking about education. Hosted by NCEED Director Dr. Meria Carstarphen, each episode brings together diverse voices and perspectives around questions submitted by community members on our social media platforms, while also drawing on current research to offer practical, evidence-based insights. School of Thought is available wherever you get your podcasts—listen and join the conversation.
School of Thought Podcast presented by NCEED
Nutrition in Schools with Jaree Cottman | Part 1
Use Left/Right to seek, Home/End to jump to start or end. Hold shift to jump forward or backward.
What’s really on our kids’ lunch trays—and who should have a say in it? In this episode of School of Thought, host Dr. Meria Carstarphen sits down with special guest Jaree Cottman for a thoughtful, practical conversation about nutrition in schools.
Together, they explore how much input parents should have in shaping school meal programs, the realities behind nutritional choices at lunchtime, and why healthy options don’t always mean kids will eat them. The discussion also dives into creative, kid-friendly strategies schools and families can use to encourage students to try new foods without turning lunch into a daily battle.
Whether you’re an educator, parent, or advocate for student wellness, this episode offers fresh perspectives on building healthier food cultures in schools—one bite at a time.