All Nutrition Services Staff

“Our Nutrition Services team is a group of dedicated hard working individuals who go above and beyond the expectations every day. They provide nutritious meals to our students with a friendly smile in fun and welcoming environment. We are extremely fortunate to have this group of nutrition professionals as part of the Bennington family.”

– Honored by Tracy Watsabaugh, Director Nutrition Services, Bennington Public Schools

Nutrition Staff, Completely KIDS

“I have been working at Completely KIDS for just a year now and I am fully amazed by everything that this organization has to offer, and part of it wouldn’t be possible without the help of places and people like you. Thank you so much for your contributions to Completely KIDS which makes our kids have a pleasant reward at the end of each day; everything makes a difference, and we are happy to have you on our corner to make it happen. I can speak for the rest of the team that we are very grateful for this. Personally I feel proud to be part of a place giving back to our community and showing togetherness can achieve greatness. Thank you once again to every single one of you for everything you do. Thank you.”

– Honored by Adrian Fuentes Sanchez, Receptionist, Completely KIDS

Ashland-Greenwood’s School Nutrition Team

“Ashland-Greenwood’s School Nutrition Team build a rapport with our students so they feel comfortable asking us questions about foods and if we can have certain menu items more often! They enjoy joking and having conversations with AG students when time permits! Our team is very happy when we hear how excited our students get about what on the menu and tell us they LOVE our meals! Our Nebraska School Nutrition Heroes mean the world to myself and our students!”

– Honored by Karee Nielsen, Food Service Director, Ashland-Greenwood Public Schools

Thank you to all the food and nutrition staff who are sometimes the first interaction a child has of the day. Your smile and kind words can set the tone for the rest of their day!”

– Honored by Rachel Lindstedt, Parent, Ashland-Greenwood Public Schools

Ashland-Greenwood High School: Karee, Carmen, Helene, Christine

“Our Ashland-Greenwood Nutrition Team works tirelessly to serve our students with care and consistency every single day. No matter the weather, challenges, or changing circumstances, they show up with energy, positivity, and a willingness to go above and beyond. Their commitment not only fuels our students but also supports the strength and success of our entire school district. We are incredibly grateful for all they do to help our community thrive!”

– Honored by Tyler Craven, Teacher, Ashland-Greenwood Public Schools

Ashland-Greenwood High School & Middle School

“Our bellies and hearts are full here at Ashland-Greenwood! Our kitchen staff members are the absolute best! We always have nutritious and appealing food options ready for us for breakfast and lunch! Our salad bar is always filled with a variety of FRESH fruit and veggie options. The ladies are kind and fun to be around they always have music playing and smiles on! I like to tell them that “We Have The Best Salad Bar – This Side Of The Platte River!” 😉 We appreciate our AG Kitchen Staff!”

– Honored by Amber Westling, High School Admin Assistant, Middle School Parent, Ashland-Greenwood Public Schools

Heather, Deb, and Megan

“Our Calvert dietary staff is AMAZING at ensuring that our students with food allergies are kept safe while in the cafeteria for meals. I, as the school nurse, never have to worry about those students being served a food that they are allergic to, as these ladies always provide the appropriate accommodations. Their care and compassion for our students makes my job easier. I appreciate all that they do every single day!”

– Honored by Ashley Robertson, School Nurse, Auburn Public Schools

“These ladies are so welcoming and kind to each and every student that walks into the lunchroom. If a spill happens, Deb is there to take action and clean it up. If more food is needed, Heather is on it and fills another tray. If supplies are running low, Megan gets them and sees to it that all students have what they need before they sit down to eat! We are so fortunate to have these ladies making our lunchroom run smoothly and enjoyable.”

– Honored by Christy Riggins, Teacher, Calvert Elementary

Nekol Lavene, Bretta Lund, Chris Remmenga

“A HUGE thank you to our incredible kitchen staff, who show up well before sunrise with smiles on their faces, ready to cook up the most delicious meals every single day! From their fresh-baked bread to their nutritious and hearty dishes, they make sure our students and staff have the fuel they need to do their best work. Their dedication, warmth, and talent in the kitchen do not go unnoticed. I am beyond grateful for each of them and truly couldn’t imagine Bertrand without them!”

– Honored by Nicole J. LeClaire, Superintendent, Bertrand Community School

Caren Clark, Wendy Klahn, Rose Nadrchal, Amanda Wright, and Sandy Winkelman

“Caren, Wendy, Rose, Amanda, and Sandy, your dedication you put into providing nutritious meals for both the students and staff truly does not go unnoticed. Each day, you play a vital role in maintaining the health of our students, supporting their learning by keeping them energized, and creating such a positive and welcoming atmosphere in the cafeteria.”

– Honored by Sara Sass, Data Steward, Cedar Bluffs Public Schools

All Nutrition Staff

“All of our lunch staff have elevated our school lunches. As a staff member I know I can eat at lunch daily for a nutritious and delicious meal. Our salad bar always has a huge variety and our staff cares about all of the students. They are not afraid to try new things and accept feedback. As a parent, my child has expanded their diet. My child loved to try new things thanks to Centennial’s well balanced meals/variety on the salad bar.”

– Honored by Crystal Jorgensen, Parent/Teacher, Centennial Public Schools

Garden County High School: Dana Fischer, Nutrition Staff

“Dana Fischer as the head cook, utilizes her nutrition team and listens to their ideas of new food ideas. For example, chicken and waffles made it to the menu and was loved by the kids! Not only is she always trying new things, but she is always wanting to be better, so she asks for input and feedback from staff and students constantly!”

– Kathryn Beberniss, Parent, Garden County Schools

All Nutrition Staff

“The Cozad “Super Hero” Haymaker kitchen staff works as a team throughout the district to provide our students a tremendous breakfast and lunch experience. And the coffee they make each morning is delicious!”

– Honored by Dan Endorf, Superintendent, Cozad Community School

All Nutrition Staff

“I am writing this to formally commend and express my heartfelt appreciation for the outstanding work of our school’s nutritional kitchen staff and cooks. Their dedication, hard work, and commitment to providing our students with nutritious, delicious, and balanced meals every day have made an immeasurable impact on the well-being of our school community.

I would also like to acknowledge the positive energy and professionalism that our school cooks bring to their work every day. Their warmth, kindness, and care are felt by both students and staff alike, and their efforts help create a positive school atmosphere where everyone feels valued.

On behalf of the entire school community, I want to extend my deepest thanks to our nutritional professionals for their tireless efforts and exceptional service. Their contributions play an important role in not only the physical health of our students but also in their academic success. We are truly fortunate to have such a dedicated and passionate team providing nourishment for our children.”

– Honored by Kris Freeland, Elementary Principal, Cozad Community School

“The staff not only prepares nutritional meals but does it with a loving attitude and attention to detail and really takes the time to get to know the students.”

– Honored by Marilyn Zarkowski, Teacher, Dundy County Stratton Schools

“Our staff is amazing. They listen to what our kids are asking for and do fun things with them.”

– Honored by Rochelle Craft, Purchasing Manager, Dundy County Stratton Schools

“They always do their best to provide a good healthy food selection for us students at Dundy County Stratton HS.”

– Honored by Austin C., Student, Dundy County Stratton Schools

“Our nutrition staff makes everyone eager for lunch time by greeting us kindly and showing genuine care that our needs are met.”

– Honored by Breck H., Student, Dundy County Stratton Schools

Benkelman Elementary: Alisha Shapley, DeAnn Davis, Vicki Thornbrough, Thelma Brewer, Roy Shapley, and Carol Wiese

“They made the breakfast fun and different each morning. Including outside community members and inviting administration to show the importance of breakfast.”

– Ronda, Business Manager, Dundy County Stratton Schools

School Nutrition Professionals in Nebraska State

“I have been working at Completely KIDS for just a year now and I am fully amazed by everything that this organization has to offer, and part of it wouldn’t be possible without the help of places and people like you. Thank you so much for your contributions to Completely KIDS which makes our kids have a pleasant reward at the end of each day; everything makes a difference, and we are happy to have you on our corner to make it happen. I can speak for the rest of the team that we are very grateful for this. Personally I feel proud to be part of a place giving back to our community and showing togetherness can achieve greatness. Thank you once again to every single one of you for everything you do. Thank you.”

– Honored by Adrian Fuentes Sanchez, Receptionist, Completely KIDS

Central, Jefferson Intermediate, Jr./Sr. High: All Nutrition Staff

“Our cafeteria staff is the heart of our schools, bringing positivity and care to every meal they serve. Their dedication goes far beyond just preparing food—they help our youngest students navigate their trays with patience and kindness, ensure fresh fruits and vegetables are always available, and adjust menus on the fly when weather throws a curveball. Every breakfast and lunch they prepare is made with thoughtfulness, and even the à la carte options carry that homemade touch that reminds us of a snack made with love. It’s not easy work, but day in and day out, they show up with smiles, creating a warm and welcoming environment for our students and staff. We are so grateful for their commitment to nourishing both bodies and hearts!”

– Devin Embray, Superintendent, Fairbury Public Schools

Gretna High School: Cheryl Schatz, All Nutrition Staff

“Cheryl Schatz and here team here at GHS do an amazing job of ensuring that our students have everything they need. Cheryl and her team go above and beyond every day to make each lunch the best experience our kids can have. They truly care about our kids and are willing to do whatever it takes for them! Thank you!!”

– Honored by Todd Mueller, Principal, Gretna Public Schools

Harvest Hills: All Nutrition Staff

“Charleen and her team go above and beyond to provide nutritious and delicious meals to our students. But it’s not just about the food – they take the time to know each student’s name, face, and story. They care for their needs beyond just lunch, offering a listening ear, a comforting smile, and a helping hand whenever needed. Their dedication to ensuring every child feels seen, heard, and supported is truly making a difference in our school community. Thank you, Charleen and team, for all that you do to nourish the minds, bodies, and hearts of our students!”

– Honored by Kirsten Troester, Building Principal, Gretna Public Schools

Gretna East High School: All Nutrition Staff

“The nutrition staff at Gretna East High School works extremely hard every day to provide a large selection of delicious, nutritional meals for our students. The nutrition staff is always friendly and greets students each day with a smile and positive attitude. They definitely contribute to the positive culture at GEHS. Thank you for all you do for our students!”

– Honored by Chad Jepsen, Principal, Gretna Public Schools

Mary Lynch Elementary School: Danessa Terrill, Shawna Allen-Bojorquez, Barbi Koehn

“Our lunch staff is the heart of our school, making every mealtime special for our students. They go above and beyond to ensure that every child is served with a smile, creating a warm and welcoming environment in the cafeteria.

Not only are they incredibly helpful—always ready to assist students with their trays, open tricky packaging, and make sure everyone gets nutritious snacks and meals—but they also encourage kids to try new foods, expanding their taste buds with exciting and healthy options.

Our incredible lunch staff also goes the extra mile by organizing special events that make mealtime even more fun! Whether it’s themed breakfast days, holiday celebrations, welcoming family members into our cafeteria, or helping them to be properly fueled up for testing, they bring joy and creativity to our school.

Most importantly, they love our students! They take the time to get to know each child, offering kind words, friendly greetings, and a caring presence that makes going to eat a bright spot in the day. Their dedication and positivity make all the difference, and we are so grateful for them!”

– Honored by Denelle Klosterman and Cassady Malm, Kindergarten Teachers, Mary Lynch Elementary

“Shawna and Danessa always make nutritious meals for students that they love! Every day I hear about how excited the kids are to eat their lunch, especially mandarin orange chicken! Apart from making delicious meals, they have great relationship with the students. Often they are able to put a smile on their face even if they are having a rough day!”

– Honored by Rachel Risseeuw, Teacher, Kimball Public Schools

All Nutrition Staff

“They work really hard to provide nutritous meals and ones everyone will enjoy. They provide a variety in their meals. They are always great help when meals are needed for field trips, parents and grandparents breakfasts, etc. They are always kind and friendly and willing to help.”

– Honored by Judy Walker, Teacher, Kimball Public Schools

Everett, Rousseau: All Nutrition Staff

“Thank you for taking care of students and providing them with care and nourishment! Our community needs and appreciates you. Thank you!”

– Honored by Isabel Hasselbalch, Relative of a Teacher and Former Student, Lincoln Public Schools

Lincoln East: Saroyan, Kylee, Mary, Henrietta, Kathleen, Wendolyn, Iman, Amy

“Stories from and about the kids and how the students feel safe and taken care of by these people. A true appreciation both ways!”

– Honored by Terri Hermes, Community Member, Lincoln Public Schools

Maxey Elementary School: Maxey Nutrition & Lunchroom Staff

“Maxey Elementary School is fortunate to have an amazing Nutrition Services and Lunchroom Support Team! Every day, our Mustangs eagerly anticipate sharing highlights from their day, reconnecting with the friendly cafeteria staff, and enjoying a delicious meal alongside some of the hardest-working and kindest people around. I am so thankful for all you do!”

– Honored by Holly David, Principal, Lincoln Public Schools

Morley: Karri, Rosann, Lisa

“Our Morley team is OUTSTANDING! Karri, Lisa, and Rosann are kind and respectful to students and staff. They work hard and go above and beyond to meet the needs of our students. We are so fortunate to have them at Morley!”

– Honored by Brandi Hennerberg, Principal, Lincoln Public Schools

Zeman Elementary School: Kim Morock, Ann Hoobler and Vanessa Engel

“The Zeman Cafeteria Crew go above and beyond to make sure all students have what they need. They are flexible and understanding when individual students need specialized plans and work closely with staff to ensure all are accommodated. The Zeman Cafeteria Crew do more than take care of hunger, they also fill students social and emotional needs too. We thank them for all that they do!!!”

– Honored by Melissa Cochrane, Coordinator, Lincoln Public Schools

Kahoa Public Schools: Tracey Lame, Donna Bartch, Jenny Hamilton & Dalia Urias Vega

“Shoutout to the amazing Kahoa Nutrition Team! Every day, they go above and beyond to serve nutritious, delicious meals with a smile. From preparing fresh ingredients to creating a welcoming atmosphere in the cafeteria, their dedication ensures our students are fueled for success. Thank you for all you do to make lunch time special!”

– Honored by Mandy Nickolite-Greene, Principal, Lincoln Public Schools

Irving Middle School: All Nutrition Staff

“The Nutrition Staff at my school are hard-working and always so kind as we go through the line! I like all of the fruit and vegetable options that they provide and am grateful for all they do for our school!!”

– Honored by Millie, Student, Lincoln Public Schools

Rousseau Elementary: All Nutrition Staff

“Thank you for always cooking food for us so that we can learn and grow! You make a difference!“

– Honored by Everhett C., Student, Lincoln Public Schools

Lisa Varney, Miley Johnson

“Lisa works many hours a week to help create new, vibrant, healthy food choices for our students and staff, with nutrition at the forefront. She genuinely cares about the health and happiness of those who choose school meals.

Miley helps promote Lisa’s amazing work to our students and staff to make school lunches exciting and fun. With lots of social media presence, interaction with staff and students, and activities to involve the community, she is a wonderful advocate for school lunches.”

– Honored by Cathy Chizek, Human Resources Manager, Millard Public Schools

Millard North Middle School: Jen, Chris, Krystal S, Krystal B, Hilda, Geri, & Linda

“Jen and her team are true champions of school nutrition, making sure every student is nourished and ready to learn. Their hard work, creativity, and care turn the cafeteria into a place where kids feel valued and supported. From serving healthy, delicious meals to building connections with students, they make a daily impact that goes beyond the lunch tray. Their dedication helps fuel both bodies and minds, making them deserving Nebraska School Nutrition Heroes!”

– Honored by Sarah, Parent, Millard Public Schools

Ranessa and Julia

“I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt thanks for all the incredible work you both do as food service workers at Niobrara Public Schools. Your dedication and hard work make such a positive impact on the students and staff every single day.

The variety of food you provide is always impressive, offering something for everyone. It’s clear that a lot of thought and care goes into preparing the meals, and your efforts never go unnoticed. Your organization and efficiency in the kitchen are truly remarkable, ensuring everything runs smoothly and on time, even during the busiest moments.

Beyond your skills in the kitchen, your friendly smiles and warm personalities brighten the day of everyone you serve. It’s so evident that you both genuinely care about delivering the best service possible, always striving to improve and make each meal experience better than the last.

Thank you for being such an important part of our school community. Your hard work, dedication, and positive attitude make a world of difference, and we are all so grateful for you!“

– Honored by Margaret Sandoz, Superintendent, Niobrara Public Schools

All Nutrition Staff

“I wanted to express my gratitude for all that you do to nourish the many students in our district each day. Your hard work, continued efforts, and dedication do not go unnoticed, and I truly appreciate the care and commitment you put into preparing healthy meals for the students. Thank you for making sure they have what they need to stay energized and focused throughout the school day and for doing it with a smile on your face!“

– Honored by Emily Hulse, Parent, Norris School District

All Nutrition Staff

“The NBCPS kitchen staff work diligently to provide high quality meals for our kids, while maintaining high standards, and keeping an eye on the bottom line. They take great pride in their workspace and have smiles on their faces! The students and staff are lucky to have such hard working individuals.“

– Honored by Patrick Ningen, Superintendent, North Bend Central Public Schools

All Nutrition Staff

“Thank you for your great work in feeding children before, during, and after school hours! So many families rely on their children’s schools to provide breakfast before school. Because of you, those children start their days with full stomachs and they are ready to learn!! When my daughter was a student, I always enjoyed joining her for lunch at her elementary school. Because of those lunches, I hold School Nutrition staff in high regard. Your work to plan and deliver healthy meals is outstanding!! I also volunteered at a Boys & Girls Club where children ate after-school meals provided by the school district. The kids gobbled down their favorite foods then! THANK YOU for supporting our community’s children through your work! You deserve far more praise that you receive!“

– Honored by Mary Ann McDonald, Parent & Friend of OPS, Omaha Public Schools

Forest Station: Laura Erikson, Nicole Christensen, Carla Martinez Vieyra and Mardel Curry

“They’re nothing short of the most supportive nutrition service people I’ve run across. They support my students with their diverse needs, and are so patient with their communication needs. They’re always friendly and happy and honestly going through the breakfast line is one of the highlights of my day because I get to see them all. I’m thankful for their continued love of our students and the love that they provide at important meal times throughout the day“

– Honored by Michelle Richards, Teacher, Omaha Public Schools

Rumsey Station: All Nutrition Staff

“Rumsey’s lunch staff is such a blessing! They are at work every day to patiently provide nutritious food for all students. Thank you for being awesome!“

– Honored by Mrs. Nelson, Music Teacher, Papillion La Vista Community Schools

Rumsey Station: Adam, Lisa, and Maria

“Thank you for always serving with a smile and making lunchtime a special time for everyone. We appreciate all that you do!“

– Honored by Melissa Yeshnowski, Administrative Assistant, Papillion La Vista Community Schools

Anderson Grove: Tami and Sherie

“Tami and Sherie play a vital role in making sure lunchtime at The Grove runs smoothly each and every day. Their organization and efficiency help create a calm and welcoming environment for students. Beyond that, they consistently go above and beyond by greeting students with smiles and engaging in positive interactions as they move through the line. It’s clear they care deeply about our school community, as they take the time to learn and remember each student’s name. Their hard work, kindness, and dedication do not go unnoticed—we are so grateful for all they do!“

– Honored by Brooke Morehead, Principal, Papillion Papillion La Vista Community Schools

Lovay Wells, Chari Hansen, Jess Forbes, Jean Lewis

“Our team works so well together to prepare and serve with efficiency and a positive attitude. They continually strive to improve the overall food service experience for our students, whether it is breakfast, grab & go, lunch, or milk snack time. They are truly part of the fabric of our school district!“

– Honored by Dr. Darron Arlt, Superintendent, Plainview

All Nutrition Staff

“There are many words to describe members of the RPS Nutrition Staff: dedicated, passionate, talented, and hard-working are some that come to mind right away. Every day, they go out of their way to provide healthy and delicious food options to all our students. They also keep our students fed throughout the summer and build positive relationships with our students and families.

Our Nutrition Staff is always thinking outside the box and developing fun ways our students can get involved in nutritional education – from a Kid’s Culinary Competition to working with our high school students, including them on various school district and community catering opportunities. We are so lucky here in Ralston to have such awesome Nutrition Staff members who go above and beyond for our students and make delicious food for all to enjoy. “

– Honored by Jim Frederick, Communications Director, Ralston Public Schools

Heather Reimers; Mary Kruse; Julie Loberg

“Joy and smiles on their faces as they serve our students! Care and well-being in providing a tasty meal!“

– Honored by Daryl Schrunk, Superintendent, Randolph Public Schools

All Nutrition Staff

“This staff is the best! Friendly, hardworking, competent, and professional!“

– Honored by Ruffin Stirling, Teacher, Walthill Public School

“They provide nutritious meals for every student (breakfast, morning snack, lunch, after school snack, and supper on family feed nights.) These are the best meals most of our students get to eat and we appreciate our caring kitchen staff greatly.“

– Honored by Maddie, Teacher, Walthill Public School

“Friendly upbeat hardworking always serving the best fresh fruit and salad bar.“

– Honored by Trina, Teacher, Walthill Public School

“The cafeteria staff at Walthill servers healthy, nutritious and delicious meals to staff and students free of charge“

– Honored by Gerta Weber, Full-Time Elementary Substitute, Walthill Public School

“Our staff is always positive and engaging when they see the students and staff they try to make everyones day better.“

– Honored by Marsha Meyers, Teacher, Walthill Public School

“Our kitchen staff at Walthill’s is the best!!! Not only do we get nutritious meals , this staff will go above and beyond to accommodate what ever we need! It may be needing a certain item for our classroom ( bowls,spoons etc….) to do an activity for that day or just offering a friendly smile and hug for anyone! We just have the best! They are our family!“

– Honored by Rita Gomez, Teacher, Walthill Public School

David Pan, Nancy Anderson, Irene Warner

“David, Nancy, and Irene make every single student, teacher, and staff member feel like family. They are always so kind to everyone! They have challenged our tastebuds by bringing in new fruits and veggies and coming to the classroom to discuss these new foods and letting eveyone sample them. Then, if they are a hit, they add it to our daily fruit/veggie snack and/or salad bar. They get super excited about the Crunch Off every year, which in turn, makes the kids excited. We have a coloring competition with prizes. This year, they even had t-shirts made for the winners (with their own artwork on it)! They truly are the best!“

– Honored by Tara Kramer, Teacher, Walthill Public School

David, Nancy, Irene, Connie, Pearl

“David and his kitchen crew do a great job of providing hot breakfast and lunches to all students and staff in our district. They ensure that the food is fresh- especially at our fresh fruit and salad bars.“

– Honored by Hannah Schuller, Teacher, Walthill Public School

Shelly, Michelle S., Michelle R., & Laura

“These ladies are the rock of our nutrition program! Our school’s lunch ladies are the unsung heroes of every school day! They greet us with warm smiles and serve up delicious, nourishing meals that fuel our minds and bodies. Beyond the food, they create a welcoming atmosphere, offering kind words and a listening ear. They work tirelessly behind the scenes, ensuring everything runs smoothly, and their dedication makes our lunch breaks a highlight of the day.“

– Honored by Tucker Tejkl, Superintendent, Shelby-Rising City Public Schools

Amber

“Amber is very focused on what they students will eat. She makes sure that the meals are nutritious, tasty, and food that the children will eat. She is a hero because she handles this all by herself!“

– Honored by Stacey Bauer, Teacher, Spalding Academy

Springfield Elementary: Sharon, Heather, Colleen

“Sharon, Colleen, and Heather go above and beyond every day to ensure that students receive nutritious, delicious meals with a warm smile. Their dedication to creating a welcoming environment in the cafeteria makes a real difference in kids’ lives, providing not just food but also kindness and support. Whether it’s going the extra mile to accommodate special dietary needs, introducing fun meal themes, or simply brightening a child’s day with encouragement, Sharon, Colleen, and Heather embody the spirit of a Nebraska School Nutrition Hero.“

– Honored by Sarah, Parent, Springfield Platteview

All Nutrition Staff

“Thank you so much for all the work you do to keep kids fed and healthy in your community! Your work is very appreciated!“

– Honored by Kasey Ogle, Nebraskan Citizen

Mr. Steffen and the entire District 145 Nutrition Staff

“Without them, our Dist 145 Beef in Schools program would be dead in the water. Every lunch time we “Beef It Up” they wear special Tshirts and decorate the lunch room. Their enthusiasm over serving local meats and produce is contagious and kids of every age love it! Last year they served beef offals for kids to try and I’m still shocked at how many lined up for tongue, liver, and heart… and loved it! Mr. Steffen and crew are always thinking of ways to creatively engage kids in consuming new, nutritious, and local foods!“

– Honored by Dixi Wellman, Parent, Waverly School District 145