Back to School (Not Just For Kids!)

investing in them. You are also developing a level of succession planning. As people move up in positions, the learning

Training may come in a variety of other ways. The U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service (USDA, FNS) and the Institute of Child Nutrition (ICN) both provide free and readily accessible training materials. ICN also houses an online learning system called iLearn and can conduct face-to-face and virtual instructor- led training (VILTs) at no cost. There is also a myriad of other allied organizations, commodity boards, food manufacturers, and vendors that you can work with to access training programs for your staff. I dentify the “weak spots” in your program and use the many resources available to you and your staff to up your game. On a closing note, I want to point out that the USDA Professional Standards should be viewed as the minimum level of training for you and your staff. You reap what you sow is 100% accurate in building a resilient system. The more you invest in your people, the stronger they will be in their jobs. Effective training creates a safe space where your staff can confidently rely on what they have learned to get them through any challenge. Knowing you are supported and that you are provided with the competencies, knowledge, and skills to succeed creates an attractive workplace. An organization that supports and grows its employees attracts and retains good people. Grow your program’s resiliency and integrity by continually growing your staff’s professional development.

curve is less severe. You are building more resiliency into the program.

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Patrick has been in the Food Service Industry for over 18 years. He is a graduate of the Institute of Culinary Education (Manhattan, NY). Previously Patrick was the Child Nutrition Director for the Ellensburg School District. Patrick has been the Executive Chef in various fields of the hospitality industry, including Higher Education, Restaurants, and Catering. Outside of work, he enjoys time with his family, waterfowling, golfing, and woodworking. Patrick is a strong advocate for the Autism Community and serves as a Board Member for the Kittitas County Court Advocates for Children (CASA) program. Chef Patrick Garmong Associate Director of Culinary Education and Training | Institute for Child Nutrition

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