Robin Proffit accepts the School Lunch Hero award

Robin Proffit, the Food Service Director for Clearbrook-Gonvick Schools was the recipient of one of three awards that was given out this year by the Minnesota Department of Education, (MDE). Amanda Middaugh, the MDE specialist that reviewed the school district this year, nominated Robin Proffit as being a School Lunch Hero!   She said that, “Robin takes on a lot as the food service director and she does so with passion. She strives for perfection and is constantly trying to improve the meal program all while following program regulations successfully. It is evident that she cares a lot about her students and loves her job. She has gone above and beyond!”

Debra Lukkonen, Supervisor for the School Nutrition Program with the MDE went on to say, “Each year, our team of monitors at the Minnesota Department of Education – School Nutrition Program, visit about 250 School Food Authorities (SFAs) to conduct an administrative review in accordance with USDA regulations. I asked the monitors to identify particular SFAs or school nutrition staff who stretch that extra mile to go above and beyond expectations. I wanted to recognize those individuals who were working hard to recreate menus and get students excited about trying the new, healthier, choices in school lunch.”

School nutrition staffs strive to make lunchtime the favorite part of every student’s day. From their friendly greetings in the cafeteria and the love they dish out with every student’s meal, to how they encourage kids to eat more fruits and vegetables, the school nutrition professionals are truly heroes. Between preparing healthy meals, adhering to strict nutrition standards, navigating student food allergies, and offering service with a smile, school nutrition professionals have a lot on their plates.