New Sodexo director reports growth in summer meals; district begins taste tests and student feedback program

Amy Desalone, new director for Sodexo's child-nutrition services for the district, introduced herself to the board and reported a strong summer-meals season. Desalone said the district served 13,967 breakfasts and 14,633 lunches over the summer, roughly 2,000 more total meals than the prior summer. She told the board the noncongregate summer-meals model used by the district has produced increased reach and she wants to continue growth. Desalone outlined priorities for the school year: learn community preferences through surveys, on-site observations and taste-test events; adjust service times and menu options where needed; incorporate fresh products and improve service times to maximize student eating time. She said the nutrition team includes four site leads and 14 additional workers who prepare daily meals. Desalone invited board members and community members to visit cafeterias, sample foods and participate in future culinary and "future chef" events. The superintendent thanked Desalone and noted the district has already seen a strong start to breakfast and lunch participation this school year. Discussion vs. decision: this was an informational presentation; no new contract or policy changes were approved at the meeting.