Friday Focus
April 19, 2024
SCHOOL NUTRITION NEWSLETTER
Message from the Director
Earth Day is celebrated on Monday, April 22. I'm proud that we do our part as responsible inhabitants of this beautiful planet we call home. We have reduced our carbon footprint in many ways. We're teaching students to join us in our K12 Food Rescue mission by donating what they don't want rather than throwing it in the trash. We're replacing older equipment with energy efficient ones. We eliminated straws at the secondary schools and replaced styrofoam trays with ones made from composted material. We recently developed a new way to package meals for VALE which eliminated styrofoam take out containers. As Covid fades in the rearview mirror, we are returning to more bulk service of food and less single use plastic packaging. Secondary schools take advantage of the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program and we are transitioning back to self serve produce bars eliminating the need for plastic packaging. VHS is experimenting with condiment squeeze bottles familiar to restaurants instead of individual packets. What other ideas do you have that can help us reduce the use of plastic? If you have time, watch the private documentary below. Although it's movie length (1.5 hrs.), I promise you will never feel the same about plastic again. You must use the password below to access the film.
With gratitude,
Kathy
PASSWORD FOR MOVIE: 0301MicroplasticsMovie
School Lunch Hero Day
May 3, 2024
Each year, when the School Nutrition Association says school nutrition professionals are heroes, they mean it! That’s why they are celebrated every spring with the annual School Lunch Hero Day. Schools across the country are recognizing the difference School Nutrition teams make for every child's academic success. Your work is definitely worth celebrating. More importantly, YOU and your commitment, passion and dedication are so very deserving of this recognition.
Thank You, Lifesavers!
Both the VHS Cafe and the Satellite Manager have been out on leave.😮 Special thank you to Patty Jordan and Briana Mitseff, VHS Production Leads for covering the ordering and production record data input! You both have shown true leadership and I appreciate the added responsibilities you are taking on to keep operations going. Did I mention they have to launch a new menu, too? Shout out to Luis who has been coming in early to cashier at Breakfast every day, despite working late at his other job.🥱 In addition to those on leave, there are several vacancies. On Wednesday, only six permanent employees were in attendance at VHS and they had to cashier. Serving was done entirely by our faithful substitutes Dawn, Julie and Meghan. I also know that when this many subs are here, many of you are working short. Thank you all for keeping us above water! 👏👏👏
Employee Evaluations
Cafe Managers will begin scheduling employees for their annual performance review. The Food Service Employee Evaluation form describes employee skills and traits that are
identified with job success. You can view the evaluation form below for managers, techs and leads. The purpose of the evaluation is to recognize the performance quality of the employee and provide direction for improvement. We believe it's equally as important to let an employee know what they do very well and where they shine. The evaluation process is not a form of discipline, it's an important tool to help all employees succeed.
* Evaluation of the employee occurs throughout the year with informal observation by the
supervisor and through job performance counseling.
* Annually, the employee’s supervisor will complete this evaluation form. The supervisor shall
provide written instructions for all areas needing improvement and identify training needs.
* Every evaluation must have at least one area designated as “needs to improve” for the employee to set as a performance improvement goal.
Industry News: Project School Nutrition
This recipe from Project School Nutrition uses the same ingredients as our yogurt parfaits and it's a bit genius. I think this would be a great idea to try at home, too, for a make ahead brunch or quick grab and go breakfast item. You can substitute bulk greek yogurt for the parfait pro. It seems like there would be endless combinations you could create with different yogurt flavors and toppings! Project School Nutrition is a consulting group that helps bridge the gap for busy School Nutrition administrators with nutrient analysis and menu planning services. We're excited to announce that Project School Nutrition's founder, Ashley Morena, will be a speaker at our 2024 Back to School Workshop!
Promotions
Valparaiso High School
New menu is launching on Monday. Students enjoyed sneak peek taste testing.
Heavilin Elementary
Students get to customize a burrito rice bowl, just like Chipolte, only better! Muy Bueno, Jackie!
Happy Birthday, Thomas Jefferson!
Both TJM and TJE celebrated their namesake's birthday with a menu built with his favorite foods.
Indiana SUN Bucks
Indiana SUN Bucks is a new and permanent program which replaces Summer EBT funds. IDOE will automatically mail EBT cards with $120 per eligible free or reduced student to families based on their address in Skyward. More info at https://www.in.gov/doe/nutrition/indiana-sun-bucks-summer-ebt/:
Myth or Fact?
From Ashley
This week's health inspection violation is....Not having a waste receptacle for disposable towels at hand washing sink! As part of an acceptable handwashing station with hot water reaching 100 degrees, pump hand soap, signage, disposable towels, a waste receptacle is also required to be at the station. By providing a waste receptacle at a hand washing station, you not only promote good hygiene practices but also contribute to maintaining a clean and safe environment for everyone!
LAST CALL.....for summer food service employee applications! Deadline is TOMORROW!
Friendly reminder to all: my birthday is on Saturday :)
Calendar
May 3, 2024 School Lunch Hero Day!
May 7, 2024 eLearning Day (Regular Work Day)
May 27, 2024 Memorial Day (No Work Day)
May 30, 2024 Half Day, K-12 (Regular Work Day)
May 31, 2024 No School/Kitchen Shutdown (Regular Work Day)
June 3-20, 2024 Summer School Session I
July 8-25, 2024 Summer School Session II
August 12, 2024 Back to School Workshop (Mandatory)
August 13, 2024 Open Kitchens and Prep (Regular Work Day)
August 14, 2024 First Day of School
Digital Resources
Open Positions
Non-employees can apply by completing an online application as an External Applicant here: https://www.applitrack.com/valpo/onlineapp/
FS Tech, VHS, 6 hours
FS Tech, VHS, 6 hours
FS Tech, Heavilin, 4 hours
FS Tech, BF Middle, 4.5 hours
FS Tech, Central, 4 hours
Immediate Care vs. Emergency Room
All VCS employees, whether they have Anthem insurance or not, are eligible to use Immediate Care of St. Mary's Medical Center for non-life threatening emergencies. The visit is free for employees with Anthem insurance and $93 for employees without Anthem. Considering that the average ER visit in Indiana costs $1,618.00, this may be a good option for you and your family. Read more below and contact Haley Jones, Benefit Assistant at ext. 1136 if you have questions or need more information.
New for Employees with Anthem Insurance
From Haley Jones, Benefits Assistant
Not feeling well and don't want to leave the comfort of your home?
LiveHealth Online is a great option. This service offers a $0 copay to all Anthem subscribers and covered dependents. Doctors are available 24/7 on your computer or mobile device. This is for non-emergency medical issues only.
Click HERE to create an account online or go directly through your Sydney App to access LiveHealth Online. (Please be sure to have your Member ID available.)
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out.
219-531-3000 ext. 1136
EMPLOYEE DISCOUNTS
How to Use Skyward Employee Access
Do you need help or a refresher on how to log in to Skyward Employee Access? The file linked below will take you step by step (with pictures) through this easy process. You need to be able to log in to Skyward Employee Access to request time off, print your check or tax forms. When you view your check, you should review the deductions and be sure they are correct based on what you chose during your enrollment appointment with American Fidelity.
Free Employee Assistance Program
Your Perspectives EAP is here to provide confidential, no-cost support for you and your family 24/7.
Call or text 800.456.6327 to schedule an appointment with a counselor or contact us for in-the-moment support.
Use the “Live Chat” feature on your Perspectives Online Portal to instant message with a counselor 7 a.m.-9 p.m. CST Mon.-Fri. (Remember to use your unique Access Code, and your Password is perspectives
Resources
Did you miss an issue of Friday Focus?
https://www.valpo.k12.in.us/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=1221036&type=d&pREC_ID=1455849
About Us
This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
Email: kkane@valpo.k12.in.us
Website: https://www.valpo.k12.in.us/apps/pages/nutrition
Location: 2727 N. Campbell St., Valparaiso, IN 46385
Phone: (219) 531-3050
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ValpoSchoolFood
Twitter: @ValpoSchoolFood