“”School Lunch Hero Day is a special time for students, staff, and parents to recognize the hard-working professionals in school cafeterias. Not only do these talented individuals prepare tasty meals for students, but they also do so in following complex rules, including strict nutritional standards, and navigate student food allergies, ethnic traditions, and varying preferences — all while offering service with a smile.
“For many of our students, the cafeteria is the first place they enter on a school day,” said district school nutrition supervisor Lyn Halvorson. “From the first time through the cafeteria line, our nutrition staff has more than nutrition on their minds. The well-being of every child is important to them. Keeping kids safe, happy, and providing them with great meals are all things our staff take to heart.”
This year the district recognizes Mary Lindahl as a School Lunch Hero. Lindahl has been with the district since 2006. She is currently an assistant nutrition manager for the School District of La Crosse.
“Mary is a very important member of our Emerson Elementary School family,” said Emerson principal Brian Oberweiser. “She is so invested in the lives and success of every child in our school and we couldn’t think of a better way to show her what she means to all of us.”
To celebrate Lindahl, students and staff at Emerson Elementary School in La Crosse hosted a surprise event to recognize the very special School Lunch Hero. A large group of students, staff, friends, and family was joined by current and former nutrition services co-workers, who have known the honoree for years.””””[vc_video link=”https://youtu.be/F2eehxkbzpA”]””