School nutrition leaders are navigating a land- scape that demands more than operational expertise. They are managing changing regula- tions, evolving nutrition standards, workforce challenges, rising expectations, and the needs of an increasingly diverse school community. The leaders who thrive aren’t necessarily the ones with all the answers - they’re the ones who create the environment where people, ideas, and possibilities can grow. Innovation begins with curiosity. Dearest readers, I'd like to challenge every one of you. Instead of asking, “How have we always done this? ask, “What could we do differently?” Don't measure success by how much you read, listen to, or attend meetings or conferences. Measure this year’s success by how many ideas you'll actually implement. How do you ask? Here are some examples: When you hear about Buy American compli- ance... Don't simply ask, "What are the rules?" Ask, "How can this strengthen trust in our pro- gram?" When you learn about technology... Don't ask, "Can our software do that?" Ask, "How can this save my staff time so they can spend more time serving students?" When you hear about Farm to School... Don't ask, "Where do I begin?" Ask, "Who in my community should I call next week?" When someone shares a new menu concept... Don't ask, "Would my students eat this?" Ask, "How can I test it?" When you hear about dietary guidelines... Don't ask, "What changed?" Ask, "How can we lead instead of react?" When you visit a vendor show... Don't collect brochures. Collect solutions. Find one partner that solves one challenge you've been struggling with. When you attend a wellness session... Remember... The healthiest school nutrition program begins with healthy people. Take care of your team. Take care of yourself. When you see an innovative idea... Don't admire it. Borrow it. Adapt it. Improve it. Then share it with someone else. That mindset is powerful because innovation
Edible Education Slicing up Inspiration for your Menu and More!
Leadership isn’t a title on a business card. It’s a mindset. The success of this year’s Innovation Academy demonstrated that some of the most powerful leadership happens when school nutrition pro- fessionals are willing to step outside their com- fort zone and commit to asking better questions, and then turning those ideas into action. ”STEAL THIS IDEA” Each attendee was challenged to the following: CHALLENGE #1: Meet three people you've never met before. CHALLENGE #2: Attend one educational session outside your comfort zone. CHALLENGE #3: Ask one difficult question. CHALLENGE #4: Visit every vendor with curios- ity—not obligation. CHALLENGE #5: Write down five ideas. CHALLENGE #6: Circle the ONE idea you'll imple- ment within the next 30 days. CHALLENGE #7: Before you leave today, tell someone what that commitment is. Innovation Academy From Ideas to Impact | Powered by Pisanick Partners
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