Principals are champions for students, and they are leading the way to address childhood hunger for children in their schools across Georgia. That’s why we’re celebrating National Principal Month by spotlighting the amazing principals who make sure kids get the nutrition they need to succeed.
This October, we heard from school nutrition directors, school nutrition managers, and teachers across Georgia about principals that go the extra mile for school meals.
Christy Keeth, Long Cane Elementary School
“Mrs. Keeth is an amazing principal. As her school’s enrollment continues to increase, she has had to be creative to ensure that there is enough space for the students and their associated activities,” says Diane Pain, school nutrition director. “She has had to be creative to ensure that such a large student population with only one lunch line can get through the line quickly. A delay in getting through the line means lost class time.”
Why did you nominate this principal?
Christy Keeth has only one lunch line with no room to put another, unless walls are removed. She has had to work with both the teachers and the kitchen staff to ensure that students are fed on time according to a very strict time schedule. If a class arrives to the cafeteria even a few minutes late, it will cause a delay in lunch which results in missed class time.
By using creative solutions and oversight, Christy has created a strict time schedule for classes arriving to the cafeteria. She has instructed the teachers to help students learn their ID numbers to eliminate delays. Teachers aid in ensuring students are ready to make their choices and continue quickly through the line, reminding them to get everything they need before leaving the line. By working through every detail, she has created a successful plan to eliminate lunch line delays and minimize lost class time.
Wes Dickey, Red Top Middle School
“Dr. Dickey has been amazing and supportive to our Nutrition Staff, as well as the school garden initiatives, to connect with nutrition by serving their grown produce in school lunches!” They are a beta testing school for our district wide composting program! Anything that the we ask to try, like taste testing, he is always a willing participant in support of the nutrition program,” says Jessica Chandler, school nutrition specialist.
Why did you nominate this principal?
Dr. Dickey helps us market the school nutrition program and encourages promotion of nutrition events. He is always inclusive of our nutrition staff in school events and is overall happy to eat at our tables
Casey Bethel, New Manchester High School
“Casey Bethel, principal at New Manchester High School, brings strong assets to his role as a leader and our group. We are incredibly fortunate to have him as our administrator. He is hands down the best leader and deserving of this nomination.” says Julia Thomas, school nutrition manager.
Why did you nominate this principal?
First, Mr. Bethel is dedicated and hardworking. He is extremely organized, and focused on continuously developing best practices for the betterment of our program. He brings a positive high energy and a personal touch. He includes the nutrition department as part of his team. His caring and kind personality has thoroughly impressed me. He brings true professional attributes, and genuinely cares for our program.
He eat lunch with us daily, and encourages the students to also eat at school. Mr. Bethel strives to integrate both an understanding of our program and our goals for the school nutrition program overall. Many times over the last few years, I have approached him with promotional ideals and he is supportive of any project that we are doing and he participates in the event as well. He also always go above and beyond the call of duty in pursuing excellence. For example, in supporting our department for NSLW or NSBW our holiday meals ext. I will say there is no better principle than mine.
Rob Lindsey, Nevils Elementary
“Principal Rob Lindsey’s leadership shines in every aspect of Nevils Elementary. His energy and excitement during morning announcements make it a joy to stand and say the Pledge of Allegiance, filling the school with a sense of pride and unity. He’s always visible and approachable, making sure to check in with staff just to see how we’re doing.
His genuine compassion for both students and staff is such a valued quality, and we’re incredibly fortunate to have him guiding our school community with such heart and dedication. This should not go unnoticed!” says Desiree Yaeger, school nutrition director.
Why did you nominate this principal?
Principal Rob Lindsey goes above and beyond to foster a positive culture at his school, always supporting our program outreach initiatives like National School Breakfast Week and Lunch Week. His hands-on involvement, from working summer meal pick-up days bright and early to serving the community with a smile, reflects his commitment to our students, families, and staff.
Not only does he participate with enthusiasm, but he also inspires his staff to volunteer for events like Thanksgiving luncheons. His dedication truly strengthens the bonds between the school and the broader community.