State officials say schools now have more options for providing a healthy lunch for kids returning to school.

In May 2017, schools needed to request a waiver in order to serve one percent flavored milk during breakfast and lunch. That year, 244 school districts and 64 individual schools applied for and received waivers.

Under new guidance for the 2018-2019 school year, schools can provide low-fat, flavored milk without a waiver.

Department officials asked schools to consider getting that milk from Pennsylvania dairy vendors.

“Part of being healthy is making sure that kids are getting a healthy, balanced diet,” said Dr. Loren Robinson, Deputy Secretary for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention. “Drinking milk is an essential part of a healthy diet for children.”