Each school day, cafeteria workers prepare healthy meals for students. Some students receive breakfast delivered to classrooms and some eat lunch at school or may go home with prepared meal bags. Others attending school virtually may have the option of picking up multiple meals throughout the week. Did you know that in some areas, meals are prepared, bussed and dropped off to students at their homes? Cafeteria staff have always worked hard to ensure students have access to nutritious meals. Over the last several months, these dedicated individuals have been on the front lines, working tirelessly to provide students meals through the pandemic. With some students back in school but unable to go through the cafeteria line, cafeteria workers improvised by preparing customized meals. In some schools, they use order sheets from which students and staff are able to select from various entrees, fruits and vegetables. In addition, milk choices and condiments are selected and each student’s order is carefully labeled and delivered. That’s a lot of work! Cafeteria staff are dedicated to meeting the nutrition needs of students through the meals they work so hard to prepare and distribute.
As we are celebrating Thanksgiving and all we are grateful for, have your child show the cafeteria staff they are thankful for all of the work they do! There are many ways to express your gratitude. Here are a few ideas to get you started!
Thank you cards - Writing “Thank you” cards is fun and inspires creativity. Use whatever supplies you may have around the house. Write a few words to express your thoughts and sign your name or be anonymous. Cards can be handed off during meal pick-up, brought to school or mailed to your school: Attention Cafeteria Manager.
Drawings/Collages - Students can draw pictures to illustrate their favorite school lunches. Another idea is to draw a scene with friends eating in the cafeteria or picking up food from the distribution line. A budding artist might like to attempt a portrait of their favorite school lunch hero!
Make a Sign - Who doesn’t enjoy making a fun and colorful poster or sign? Try a neon poster board or colorful paint or markers/crayons to make your message stand out. Display posters/signs on your car as you pick up meals. If your child is in school, make a class poster to display on the classroom door.
Social Media - Share your thoughts and appreciation with a social media post through your school, local or personal Facebook or Instagram page. Share about your favorite foods or give a “shout out” by mentioning names and giving praise to those working hard to prepare the meals.
Give Feedback - Cafeteria staff love to receive feedback from students and parents. Staff might like to know the answers to these questions; Do you find the food easy to prepare? What are your kids eating the most of? What are your favorite school foods? Hearing from you helps the staff to know what is working and valued and what may need improvement.
Be creative and have fun! Kids love to do for others and see the smiles their actions bring forth. Appreciation is a gift to both the giver and the receiver.
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