Two Gilbert Public Schools Nutrition Employees have been recognized by the School Nutrition Association for their valuable contribution to the district and their commitment to its students.
Pamela Sosa, nutrition services manager at Playa del Rey Elementary, and Lavette Hutchinson, nutrition services assistant for the district, were honored as Manager of the Year and Employee of the Year, respectively.
Shannon Gleave, School Nutrition Association president, praised both for their hard work for school nutrition.
“Pamela is highly respected by all for her professionalism and dedication," Gleave said. "Her effective communication skills and willingness to adapt to the needs of others strengthens relationships, builds trust and cultivates a sense of community that benefits students and staff alike."
Sosa has created a fun and welcoming environment at Playa del Rey Elementary, where she actively seeks to create trusting relationships with students by learning their names and working to serve foods that will both nourish them and bring enjoyment to their days.
She plays a pivotal role in GPS’s taste-testing committee which allows her to collect her students’ feedback and implement it in the district’s nutrition plans.
“Lavette is a beloved member of the cafeteria team who takes genuine pride in creating and presenting appealing meals to encourage her students to try healthy food options," Gleave said. "Her creativity transforms the cafeteria into a fun and inviting place, and her excitement and love for her job is infectious."
Hutchinson showed her dedication to GPS students’ nutrition by her continued participation in SNA meetings where she brings creative tools and strategies back to the district to ensure the students are eating meals that nourish them while also making sure they can look forward to their meals.
But she takes this dedication a step further by playing an active role in school events that build relationships between students, their families, and their schools, such as “Muffins with Moms” and “Doughnuts with Dads.”
Sosa and Hutchinson's recognitions were announced during an online awards ceremony April 30 in advance of School Lunch Hero Day, celebrated on May 2, to honor dedicated school nutrition professionals.
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here