FROM TRAINING TO THE TRAY (CONTINUED)
expectations, provide constructive feedback, recognize accomplishments, and make time for training and practice. They also foster environments where staff feel comfortable asking questions and learning from experience. This approach builds resilient, adaptable, and united-in-purpose teams. A Path Toward Healthier Futures Every meal served in a school cafeteria reflects hours of planning, preparation, learning, and teamwork. When programs invest in their people through training, mentorship, resources, and supportive leadership, they do more than strengthen operations; they create environments where children are nourished, supported, and prepared to thrive. Workforce development is not simply an operational priority. It is a public health commitment. By strengthening and supporting school nutrition professionals, we help ensure healthier meals today and healthier futures for students and communities for years to come. When staff feel prepared, supported, and empowered, they bring that confidence into every part of their work." “
address challenges quickly, and serve meals with pride. Their impact extends beyond the tray into students’ health, academic readiness, and overall well-being. Training That Builds Confidence, Skill, and Impact The Institute of Child Nutrition centers its educational approach on practical, evidence- based strategies that reflect how adults learn best. School nutrition professionals benefit from relevant training that is immediately applicable and grounded in real kitchen challenges. The ICN integrates these principles across learning experiences from hands-on culinary workshops to short micro-trainings that can be completed between meal services. Active Learning Practice plays a critical role in building culinary skills. Knife skills training, for example, allows staff to learn proper hand placement, practice consistent cuts, and improve efficiency. These skills translate directly into faster preparation, higher-quality scratch and speed-scratch meals, and reduced food waste. Micro-Trainings for Daily Reinforcement Short, focused trainings help reinforce essential practices such as temperature control, handwashing, and equipment use. These micro-trainings strengthen food safety habits, reduce risk, and support a shared culture of accountability across the team. Learning That Reflects Real Work Training is designed with the realities of school kitchens in mind, including tight timelines, limited prep space, and the need for repetition. ICN resources such as job aids, videos, toolkits, online courses, and hands-on trainings equip teams with practical tools that support both day-to-day operations and long-term skill development. Leadership That Lifts Teams Up Strong school nutrition programs are guided by leaders who invest in both people and process. Supportive leaders encourage continuing education and skill-building, set clear
Looking for More Support? Visit theicn.org to access ICN’s trainings, resources, and tools. Questions? Contact the ICN Help Desk via email at helpdesk@theicn.org or by phone at 18003213054.
ICN Website
Dr, Danielle Barrett | Institute of Child Nutrition Dr. Danielle Barrett is an instructional designer, registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN), and education leader with more than a decade of experience in adult learning, public health, and culinary nutrition. As an Education and Training Specialist II at the Institute of Child Nutrition (ICN), the nation’s only federally funded center dedicated to child nutrition programs, she develops and evaluates evidence- based trainings that advance the skills of child nutrition professionals nationwide. Passionate about culinary nutrition and instructional innovation, Dr. Barrett is committed to promoting healthy eating and fostering wellness in our nation's children.
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