LEADERSHIP BEYOND THE DESK (CONTINUED)
and recognize effort as well as results. They focus on building people, not just filling schedules. When employees feel respected and valued, they give their best because they want to, not because they are forced to. That kind of effort cannot be mandated. It must be earned. Stronger Teams Build Healthier Futures School nutrition is people work. It is the combined effort of frontline staff, managers, supervisors, and directors working toward a shared goal. When leadership shows up, when teams are supported with resources and knowledge, and when people are valued first, programs become stronger. High-functioning teams do not happen by accident. They are built through presence, communication, trust, and intentional support. When teams are supported, cafeterias run more smoothly, challenges are more manageable, and staff feel confident in their roles and connected to the mission. At the heart of every successful program is a simple truth. When we take care of the people serving our students, we are taking care of the students themselves. Every day presents a chance to shape our teams through the choices we make as leaders and coworkers. The culture we create matters. Impactful teams are not an accident. They are a leadership choice.
schedules, and constant pressure send a message that people are replaceable. Taking time to train properly, explain expectations clearly, and check in with staff sends a very different message. It tells teams they matter. Support is not about making things easier. It is about making things possible. This level of support does not happen by accident. It requires leaders who are willing to advocate for their teams, adjust when something is not working, and recognize when additional help is needed. It means choosing people over convenience and long-term success over short-term fixes. Leadership Lives in the Cafeteria
management teams play a critical role not only within individual schools, but within the program as a whole. Inside each cafeteria, managers and assistant managers set the tone for the day. The way staff are trained, spoken to, corrected, and encouraged shapes the culture of the kitchen. That culture is felt during the busiest lunch periods and in moments of stress. Supported teams communicate better, adjust faster, and care more deeply about their work. Kitchens run more smoothly, and when problems arise, teams are more likely to work together rather than place blame. Effective managers step in when staff are overwhelmed. They teach rather than criticize. They explain expectations, lead with patience,
Leadership does not stop at the central office. Cafeteria
Donette Worthy | NxtGen Network Donette Worthy is a former school nutrition director who believes the heart of every successful program is its people. She currently serves as a Customer Success Manager with NxtGen, where she supports and partners with school nutrition professionals across the country. With years of experience supporting cafeteria staff, managers, and central office teams, Donette is passionate about hands-on leadership, clear communication, and building cultures where teams feel seen, supported, and confident in the important work they do for students.
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