By Jennifer Middleton, Jimplecute
Jefferson Independent School District’s Food Service Personnel were recognized during the Board of Trustees meeting on Tuesday.
Food Service Director Stephanie Holman thanked the food staff at the high school, primary, elementary and junior high campuses for their exemplary service and called them the “shining stars” of the district.
“I’m very proud of our food service,” Holman told the board, adding that she had gotten a $24,000 grant for the elementary’s fresh fruit and vegetable program and that the staff there worked hard to provide freshness for the children.
“We have the highest meals per labor hour in Region 8,” she said. “Not only do they do everything required, they go above and beyond for those elementary kids.”
She said that through the program, they were making sure the children have fresh fruit three days a week.
“They’re something,” Holman said. “I really care about them and they’re great people.”
She also thanked Local Farmer Courtney McCurry for providing the fresh fruits and vegetables straight from his garden.
“He is a blessing to this district and I am very thankful for him.”
She went on to thank the workers in the junior high and high school cafeterias, noting that even though the junior high cafeteria needs a full update, that the workers use what they have to make from-scratch, tasty and nutritious meals for the children.
“They put a smile on their face every day and put their heart and soul in what they do for these kids,” Holman said. “I am very proud of what they do.”
She also said that at the high school, students are given seven choices on the lunch menu every day and that those are made from scratch, as well.
“Y’all have my heart, so thank you,” she told the food staff who attended the meeting.
In other business, the board approved several budget amendments, which were items that were billed in the previous financial year that were not paid before the budget year ended Aug. 31. These include $25,000 for security cameras, $5,710 for three AED devices, $5,500 for a teacher incentive allotment, wall pads for the high school gym, uniforms for the junior high cheerleaders and Chromebooks.
Trustees also approved the annual campus improvement plans and remote learning for students with special circumstances.
District Special Services Director Clint Coyne said there were a few students who would benefit from the remote learning, but that it was not a general remote learning situation, and that each specific case would need approval.
He told the board there were about half a dozen children who were homebound with special circumstances and that this would benefit them.