School Lunch Hero Day is May 5th! In 2013, the School Nutrition Association and Lunch Ladies author Jarrett J. Krosoczka established School Lunch Hero day to celebrate school nutrition staff and all they do each day to serve their communities. This year, No Kid Hungry Ohio celebrates all school nutrition professionals across the state for the important work they do to feed students healthy meals at school.
School nutrition programs are critical for student well-being and success, and these programs could not function without the passion, dedication, and hard work of school nutrition professionals. In Ohio, 1 in 6 children face food insecurity. School nutrition professionals are the frontline of battling food insecurity, feeding students and offering them safety and stability. While preparing food, adhering to meal standards and regulations, and bringing joy to students, school nutrition professionals show us that not all heroes wear capes — some wear aprons.
In Ohio, even as they face numerous challenges, including supply chain disruptions and labor shortages, school nutrition staff have adapted to ensure kids continue to get healthy meals during the school day and beyond. That’s why we’re also celebrating School Lunch Hero Day by recognizing one School Lunch Hero in Ohio who has spent the last 16 years as a staple in the Euclid City Schools cafeteria and community.
Dollie Palmer | Euclid City Schools
Dollie has been a member of the School Nutrition Department at Euclid City Schools for 16 years and just celebrated her 90th birthday! Dollie will say there’s nothing difficult about her job, but in her role as a Dishroom Manager at Euclid High School, she runs a tight ship to ensure sanitation and safety among students and staff! She’s constantly on the move and loves being able to help and assist others to ensure their team can continue to prepare the best food possible for their students. According to Food Service Director, Tera Fridley, Dollie “always has a smile on her face and is very dedicated to her job. She’s a very integral part of our operation and truly exemplifies the meaning of a School Lunch Hero.”
For No Kid Hungry, School Lunch Hero Day isn’t just one day — we’re grateful for the commitment and compassion the school nutrition staff across Ohio demonstrate each and every day. Thank you!