Lincoln Elementary School Nutrition Services Assistant Rosa Roque said the best thing about her job is when she interacts with the students, providing them with good food and a “Good morning! How are you today?
“And I make sure that they are well fed.”
Nourishment is an important element of learning, and Roque knows that. Moreover, the national nonprofit School Nutrition Association knows that about Roque, who was recently recognized as the Western Region "Employee of the Year" by the SNA. The award recognizes the valuable contribution of school nutrition employees who exhibit a remarkable commitment to both their school meal program and the students they serve.
Roque was announced as the region's top employee during an online awards ceremony on April 30 in advance of "School Lunch Hero Day," celebrated on May 3, to honor all of America’s dedicated school nutrition professionals. SNA spokeswoman Emily Sorenson said the accomplishments of Roque and all SNA award winners will also be highlighted in a special digital publication and promoted in SNA's annual Hero Day social media campaign on Facebook.com/TrayTalk and TrayTalk.org .
Roque, has worked at every school in the Woodburn School District, beginning 12 years ago reading in Spanish to children at Lincoln when her son – who is now 20 – attended the school.
Roque’s first kitchen duties involved scanning identification cards at French Prairie Middle School, following that up with work at Washington Elementary, Heritage Elementary and Valor Middle School, Nellie Muir Elementary, Woodburn and Success high schools.
“She is very knowledgeable,” Roque’s supervisor Chelsea Wells said. “We’re excited for her. We just recognized all of our cooks in the kitchen with a national day to make those aware of all their hard work…A lot of teachers and principals and staff that came around and congratulated Rosa, too.”
Despite her hard work and dedication to it, Roque did not expect the SNA recognition.
“I was very surprised; I was nervous -- I couldn’t believe it,” she said.
Recognition revisited
This is not the first time the SNA has taken notice of WSD; Washington Elementary School’s Alejandrina Zepeda was recognized with the honor a year ago. Sorenson it’s rare to see a district have multiple winners, and it speaks well about WSD's emphasis on nourishment.
“It is actually pretty unique and a very positive reflection of the district's nutrition program,” she said. “The awards are judged at the regional level by a different committee every year, and they are submitted to the committee anonymously.”
SNA sources described Roque as a “star employee who greets students each morning with a smile and a positive attitude.
“She is always willing to help a struggling student or colleague and lends at hand at other school kitchens within the school district when needed. Roque serves as a great example for others with the efficient and hands-on way she performs her duties, her high energy and upbeat nature,” the SNA announcement added.
They said she will dress up for special events, like holidays and National School Lunch Week, and Breakfast Week. She is well aware of the need to offer students a variety of health options, constantly adding new fruits and vegetables to a colorful menu.
“Rosa is a bright light who shines within the school district and her community,” said SNA President Chris Derico. “She has led summer and school break meal programs and is always making positive connections with students and families.”
Beyond WSD
SNA sources added that Roque believes in professional development and participation and is among the first to sign up for state and national conferences. She strives to be an active member of SNA and always passes on important information to others. This includes member benefits and the wealth of knowledge she gains when attending these events.
Roque also regularly attends virtual trainings through the Institute of Child Nutrition and SNA.
The Employee of the Year Award was created to recognize outstanding school nutrition employees who influence the quality of school meals through customer service, an interest in young people, cooperation, work attendance, creativity, participation in professional development and their willingness to go above and beyond the call of duty.
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