dietitians and chefs work together to transform restaurant recipes for school settings, ensuring that students receive the best meals possible. The A Town Eats program, driven by these chefs, is a testament to their commitment to quality and innovation. Community Engagement and Recognition APS actively engages with the community through events like back-to-school initiatives, where they distribute backpacks and inform the community about their meal programs. They also conduct meet and greets with parents, teachers, and community partners to sample and provide feedback on the food served. Additionally, the A team fosters a positive work culture through recognition programs like Attagirl/Attaboy cards and incentive programs. Embracing Technology and Collaboration APS is at the forefront of technological implementation, using iPads and online ordering systems to enhance efficiency. Collaboration with faculty, partners, and local stakeholders is key to bringing new innovations to the community. They also actively seek feedback through mystery shop programs to continuously improve the quality of their meals. A Model for the Future The Aurora A team exemplifies the crucial role of K-12 professionals in nourishing and shaping the future. Their commitment, innovation, and dedication to meeting the needs of their students and community set a high standard for school nutrition programs nationwide. As they refuse to rest on their past accomplishments, APS continues to drive their mission forward, exemplifying the true essence of nurturing and feeding the future leaders of the country.
Mission and Methodology APS’s mission is to serve delicious and nutritious meals with exemplary customer service. The A team, consisting of 17 “lunch ladies and lads” and 285 frontline restaurant teams, is committed to innovation and quality improvement. They focus on developing and refining creative ways to support the learning and development of future leaders. Customized Services and Environmental Consciousness Recognizing the diverse needs of each school, APS uses customized service models to enhance the dining experience. Initiatives like mobile electric service vehicles and outdoor kiosks and drive-throughs for high school students illustrate APS’s commitment to environmental consciousness and modern dining experiences. Additionally, the team utilizes bus-based food trucks to maintain their mission year-round, particularly during the summer. Training and Professional Development The A team places a high emphasis on training and professional development. They conduct module trainings, midyear rallies, and back- to-school kickoffs to ensure their staff is well- equipped to provide the best service possible. Focus on Quality and Innovation The A team’s dedication to quality is evident in their Farm to School program, where they focus on serving the freshest products. Registered
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