TL/DR –
Monica Collier and Melissa Alley, two food service workers, have been recognized for their efforts to feed students nutritious meals. Collier, working at Godfrey-Lee Public Schools, was named “Director of the Year” by the School Nutrition Association of Michigan, while Alley received the annual Chartwells K12 National Leader of the Year award for her work at Sparta Area Schools and Comstock Park. Both women have implemented methods to get student feedback on meals, introduced new food concepts, and in Collier’s case, made sure students have as many opportunities to eat meals at school as possible.
Mutli-districts’ Commitment to School Nutrition
Monica Collier and Melissa Alley are passionate about providing nutritious and delicious meals to children in need. Their efforts have recently garnered recognition, with Collier being awarded the “Director of the Year” by the School Nutrition Association of Michigan.
Alley, the food service director at Sparta Area Schools and Comstock Park, received the annual Chartwells K12 National Leader of the Year award. They’re both employed by Chartwells, a company that partners with school districts to meet food service requirements.
Both directors have implemented ways for students to provide feedback on their meal preferences. They use initiatives like Global Eats, highlighting international cuisines, and Student Choice, allowing students to influence future menu items.
Collier and Alley offer Discovery Kitchen demonstrations where students can sample new dishes. Collier believes that when students feel empowered to voice their opinions, they begin to express themselves more.
Collier’s dedication to ensuring every student has access to balanced meals won her the SNAM award. She also introduced breakfast carts and after-school meals for students participating in extracurricular activities.
Innovative Food Services
Alley received the Chartwells award for innovation and her commitment to fostering community partnerships. She was nominated for her efforts such as introducing monthly newsletters, online nutrition resources, securing grants, and implementing Global Eats and Student Choice.
Students appreciate Alley’s commitment to quality food. Zach Slauter, a senior student, particularly enjoys the fruit parfait served at his high school and appreciates being able to vote on lunch options.
Alley, a 1998 Sparta graduate, says that the best part of her job is feeding students and gaining their feedback on meal preferences.
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