School board members are steadfast advocates for students, helping shape the vision and policies that support their success across our communities. Many are leading the way in addressing childhood hunger in schools across Georgia by championing strong nutrition programs and equitable access to meals. That’s why we’re celebrating School Board Appreciation Month by honoring the dedicated leaders who work behind the scenes to ensure every student has the nourishment they need to learn, grow, and thrive.
New research from No Kid Hungry’s Back to School Report highlights just how critical school meals are for families across the country. Surveying over 1,200 parents, the report reveals that many households are struggling to put food on the table, especially during the summer months when school is out. The return to school and access to reliable school meals provide vital relief. According to the report, 40% of parents worry that food will run out before the end of the month and rising food prices are their top concern. However, most parents surveyed view school meals as a valuable program, with over 80% noting that children perform better in school when they eat there.
School meals are more than just food – they’re fuel for learning and lifelines for families. They activate student learning, improve attendance, and reduce stress at home. That’s why school board members who advocate for school nutrition programs are doing so much for their community.
This month, we heard from communities across Georgia about school board members who go the extra mile to support school meals, especially during breakfast time. Below are just a handful of the many champions we can find in our school board members across Georgia!
Kathy Brown
Sand Hill Elementary, Caroll County
No Kid Hungry Georgia is honored to spotlight Kathy Brown, manager and school level chair on the state board. Her colleague has only high praises for Kathy, as her colleague states, “She is on the floor working along side her team and she loves being out in the lunchroom with all the kids. She tells everyone that them kids keep her young!! She goes beyond her call of duties every day!!!!”
Kathy does a lot to make school meals a success at Sand Hill Elementary. From testing to going out to the lunch room to talk to the kids with lunch boxes and getting them to eat with her, she does so much to advocate for kids to have the nutrition they need to thrive. No Kid Hungry Georgia is so thankful for champions like Kathy.
Louise Panter
Cartersville City Schools
The next champion No Kid Hungry Georgia is honored to spotlight is Louise Panter. Mallory Whorton, School Nutrition Director of Cartersville City Schools, nominated Louise Panter because “Ms. Panter never hesitates to truly jump in to ensure students are fed, supported, and cared for.”
“Ms. Panter works with great dedication to help make school meals a success through both her hands-on involvement and her unwavering support of the School Nutrition Department. Beyond volunteering her time, she is a consistent and reliable partner who regularly checks in, asks thoughtful questions, and ensures our team has the resources and support we need to serve students effectively. Her presence, whether volunteering, assisting behind the scenes, or simply showing up in support, makes a meaningful difference to our operations and morale.”
For instance, each year, Louise Panter plays an active role in their annual Back-to-School Community Luncheon, an event dedicated to supporting food-insecure students and ensuring they have access to nutritious meals both inside and outside the school walls. She not only attends but consistently brings a team with her, amplifying the impact of this important work.
Mallory continues, saying, “In addition, Ms. Panter volunteers monthly at our drive-thru pantry, helping bridge the gap of food insecurity within our community. One might think she’s part of our school nutrition staff, as she also faithfully serves each Thanksgiving at one of our schools, providing meals to both students and staff. I would also like to note that Ms. Panter often brings her children with her to volunteer at these events. This speaks volumes about her character. Not only is she making a meaningful impact in our community, but she is also instilling the values of service, compassion, and community engagement in her own children as well.”
Mallory puts it best: while these examples highlight her dedication to our department, Ms. Panter’s influence and commitment extend far beyond school nutrition, making a lasting impact on our entire community. Thank you Louise Panter for all you do to champion school meals!
Derick Austin
Putnam County Schools
Derick Austin is Putnam County’s Superintendent and a member of the board. Teena Carr, School Nutrition Director of Putnam County Schools, says “He is amazing. He puts our students first in every category. Mr. Austin cares for all of us. How are we doing? How can he help us in any way? He is genuine, not fake.”
Derick Austin provided immense support to the staff and initiatives of school nutrition. Teena Carr mentions that “Mr. Austin allows me to do whatever is in the best interest of the students. He allowed me to get steers, so the students have a better healthier product to eat. I have had to call him for help before, and he came right away, cooked biscuits, wrapped biscuits, etc. He visits all the kitchens to say hello and let them know he appreciates their dedication. I have never had a boss who cares so much for the students and staff. Mr. Austin’s door is always open for any concerns we may have or to share good news. He is a true HERO here in Putnam County.”
Thank you Derick Austin for your support and investment in school nutrition. No Kid Hungry Georgia is so thankful for you!
