School board expected to vote on food service contract

The school board will vote at its Oct. 16 meeting on a proposal from The Nutrition Group for food management services, a move that has district cafeteria workers worried that they will lose their jobs.

Fourteen cafeteria workers, members of the Brentwood Education Support Professionals Association, say their jobs could be eliminated if the board hires a food service company.

But the workers would be able to retain their jobs under two options, district officials said. A third option would require the workers to apply for work with the food service company.

Superintendent Amy Burch said the primary reason for retaining the company is savings. The cafeteria is expected to lose $20,000 this year, despite cost-cutting efforts.

District officials say the company is expected to achieve savings because of its purchasing power.

Payment to the Irwinbased The Nutrition Group will be based on the number of meals served.

It was one of two bidders for the contract, the other was Metz Culinary Management. “I feel hopeful that they will keep us,” cafeteria worker and union president April Piccolo said.

The union also represennts maintenance workers, secretaries, custodians and library aides.

“We are hoping they consider the fact we are an asset to the district, which has been overlooked We are an asset in that we know the kids and any health issues, and they feel comfortable with us.”