Step away from the snickerdoodles. Banish the brownies--and the blondies. This is the Big Apple, not the Big Glazed Apple Cinnamon Fritter. In a nod to healthier living, the New York City Department of Education has effectively banned bake sales--that ubiquitous fundraising staple of soccer teams, debate clubs, and school bands. The change is part of the city’s new wellness policy, which also regulates vending machine products and student-run school stores items. “We have an undeniable problem in the city, state and the country with obesity,” explains DOE office of school support services chief. “During the school day, we have to focus on what is healthy for the mind and the body.” And he means that literally. Bake sales are still allowed after 6 pm and once a month by parent associations, but never during lunch. See no evil, there is no evil? We shouldn’t be surprised by these efforts from a municipal administration that has gone to great lengths to publish calorie counts, ban trans-fats and additives, and encourage healthier living. But will walk-a-thons fly as the next fundraising trend?
“A Crackdown on Bake Sales in City Schools,” by Jennifer Medina, New York Times, October 3, 2009