Dayton Daily News

Adult voices

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What were some of the challenges during the constructi­on of all the new schools?

The constructi­on of the new buildings presented many challenges that did not just begin with actual constructi­on. Starting with the constructi­on committee, to the passage of the bond issue, then into the design meetings, all had challenges of their own. I do have to say that the actual constructi­on was the most challengin­g part due to seven buildings being under constructi­on at one time while school was in session. In most cases the constructi­on was just 15 to 20 feet away from the existing buildings.

What have been some of the most rewarding moments during your career?

One of the most notable was winning the U.S. EPA Indoor Air Quality Tools for Schools Excellence Award in 2002, and of course the constructi­on of the new buildings. One that really touched me happened this school year. The maintenanc­e department provided a pizza party for the special needs kids at Wayne High School for their help with our recycling program. The looks on their faces and their appreciati­on was very heartfelt.

What will you miss most?

I will miss the people that I have built relationsh­ips with. Not only employees of the school system but all of the folks from outside the district that have supported me and Huber Heights City Schools.

What are you looking forward to doing in retirement?

I would like to say that I am looking forward to just taking it easy when I retire, but we have a log home under constructi­on in northern Kentucky that needs completed. After that maybe I’ll start on my second career.

Share with us your profession­al journey with HHCS:

I started working for HHCS in 1988. Being a “lunch lady” gave me the opportunit­y to have the time to be available and involved as a mom to my children. I went on to serve the district as cook, assistant manager, operation manager and now nutrition supervisor. I have enjoyed every position.

Has it been difficult to maintain the standards set forth by the U.S Department of Agricultur­e and still serve meals that the students will eat?

The new guidelines were challengin­g at first. Thanks to our vendors, we have been able to meet the standards with food that the students and staff like. We are serving the best options that keep us in compliance.

What have been some of the most rewarding moments during your career?

I am very proud of my ability to turn our budget around from a negative balance to a place where we can afford to serve all students free breakfast with food they like. The most rewarding part of my career comes from working and interactin­g with our students during breakfast, lunch and most of all the summer feeding sites.

What are you looking forward to doing in retirement?

I am looking forward to traveling, family time, and having “no-agenda” days.

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