Welcome back to our blog series, the No Kid Hungry New York Partner Spotlight. Each month, we’ll be speaking to our partners across the state, learning what’s new in their school meals programs, and celebrating the tremendous work they do to ensure that more kids have access to the the fuel they need to learn, grow and thrive. This month, we heard from Kim Munn, Food Service Director at Carthage Central School District, a rural district in the North Country.
Can you describe your community and school district? What do you love about where you live and work?
Born, raised, and graduated from Carthage, I find this my home. Working in the district for nineteen years, I have taken pride in my school, especially feeding the kids. It is a joy to go out in the community — the parents know who I am and tell me I’m doing a great job.
What are some of the challenges you’re facing right now in your school meals program?
Increasing participation has always been a yearly goal. However, going CEP (Community Eligibility Provision) district-wide this year has been a tremendous help. I would say the biggest dilemma currently would be the lack of milk cartons available.
(* Due to an unexpected nationwide shortage of paper milk cartons, some schools across the state are not able to obtain milk in half pints for the school meals program.)
What’s new in breakfast in your school meals program this year?
Due to CEP, our numbers have increased for breakfast and we have had to create new Grab & Go stations.
What about your breakfast program are you particularly proud of?
I am always proud of my staff that take pride in how breakfast is displayed for the students. One kitchen in particular is my middle school staff. Each day they make sure to have a display with many yummy options, and due to that they have the highest breakfast participation.
How do you get kids excited to eat school breakfast?
Having staff that are welcoming and friendly is much needed at breakfast. Students are just waking up and need that friendly smile followed by “have a great day” each day.
At No Kid Hungry New York, we thank the Kim and food service staff members at Carthage Central School District for their dedication and enthusiasm in feeding kids throughout the school year. We’re grateful to support their work and honored to shine a spotlight on their extraordinary program!