“We have started serving authentic cuisines and the students know and love it. We’ve attracted more people who are saying one of two things: 1. This is what I eat at home; or 2. Thank you for making a real meal for me. „ older kids, who don’t love for you to eat lunch at their table. If they give you an idea, work hard to get it on the menu. It’s great to go back to that school and have the kids say, “I asked you for smoothies and it was on the menu the next month!” It means a lot to them to know you’re listening.
Talk with your legislator Show them pictures, videos, testimonials. You are the expert and they’re working for you. Don’t forget how important your voice is, even if you feel like you’re never being heard. As school nutrition directors, we longed for the days where we could feed all kids for free. It happened, and it was awesome! To go backwards was so disheartening, but we need to make sure we’re still informing our legislators of our needs. Beat your drum! You deserve it! Find a support group Other directors in your area are a great start! You need to bounce ideas (or frustrations) off someone. Let’s face it: we speak a different language. No one knows direct diversion, reimbursable meal, or all our acronyms like our counterparts in other districts. We have the luxury of not competing – so share your good ideas! You’re going to see what’s trending as a menu concept from every food broker out there. They have great insight and great ideas! It doesn’t matter how good you think the food is, though, if your kids aren’t eating it. This year, I want the #1 trending item in your district to be the kids. What do they want? What do they deserve? How can we make them successful? Trends are ever changing, so are kids. Make them the trend you follow into the rest of your career. You’ll thank yourself later!
Kaitlin is the Child Nutrition Coordinator and Registered Dietitian for the Ashwaubenon School District. She has a strong passion for feeding people and encouraging healthy lifestyles to all kids and adults. Kaitlin has worked in school nutrition for 12 years. She has served in the SNA-WI legislative committee and loves to advocate for the hard work of her colleagues around the state and the country. Kaitlin’s biggest accomplishments in life are her two amazing daughters, whom she lives with along with their furry best friend! Ashwaubenon School District (WI) Kaitlin Tauriainen, RD
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