Happy Friday, Vikings! Welcome to my first official Friday Focus "Takeover Edition"! I’m excited to kick off this new adventure with you all, highlighting the amazing work happening in our school nutrition program. Each week, we’ll dive into delicious menus, spotlight our dedicated team and their awesome promotions, and share tips for making healthy choices. Together, let’s celebrate the vital role nutrition plays in our students’ success and well-being. Here’s to a fantastic start—let’s make every Friday a focus on health and happiness! I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!

Did you know that there are two kinds of blueberries and that wild blueberries are vastly differently from the regular cultivated ones? Wild blueberries, an indigenous fruit that grows wild and spreads naturally in Maine, are an extremely versatile tiny berry with big bold flavor that students love. Wild blueberries have superior nutrition and research has shown that they boost brain health in kids.

We’re thrilled to announce that, after weeks of scheduling and rescheduling, the new merchandisers and combi ovens have finally been installed at Ben Franklin and Thomas Jefferson Middle Schools! A huge shoutout to Deb and Nancy for their incredible flexibility and support throughout the process. Despite multiple reschedules, they seamlessly adapted to accommodate the installers in their kitchens. Thank you both for your hard work and dedication!

I eat swiss cheese from the inside out. But I only nibble on it. I make the holes bigger.

I had amnesia once or twice.

I went to a garage sale "How much for the garage?" "It's not for sale."

Is "Tired old cliche" one?

I went to a fancy restaurant called "Deja Vu", "The headwaiter said "Don't I know you?"

As we celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month, I’m incredibly proud of our diverse staff, who bring rich backgrounds from Mexico, Peru, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and Ecuador. Their unique stories and experiences not only enhance our nutrition program but also create a welcoming atmosphere where we can share and appreciate each other's cultures. This month is a great opportunity to recognize and celebrate the contributions of each team member, reminding us that our diversity makes us stronger and more connected. Let’s embrace this chance to learn from one another and support our students and community together!

🎉 Let’s give a warm welcome to Meagan Marsee, the newest member of the Cooks Corners Elementary family! 🎉 Meagan has been a fantastic substitute since March and is now taking the leap to become our permanent Food Service Technician alongside Manager Erin Brooks. We’re thrilled to have her on board! Congratulations, Meagan—we can’t wait to see all the amazing things you’ll bring to our team! 🍽️✨

Luda and Megan treated Northview students to a special celebration of National Cheeseburger Day on Wednesday, September 18! One lucky student from each class who discovered the magic sticker on their tray was awarded an exclusive behind-the-scenes kitchen tour. What a fun way to enjoy the day!

Central Elementary students celebrated their first Domino's Smart Slice Lunch day! They couldn’t help but admire the impressive pizza tower crafted just for them, featuring whole grains, low-fat cheese, and lower sodium!

September 27, 2024 Half Day K-12 (Regular Work Day)

October 14-15, 2024 Fall Break, No School (No Work)

October 24-25, 2024 Half Days K-8 (Regular Work Days)

November 5, 2024 eLearning Day (Regular Work Days)

November 27-29, 2024 Thanksgiving Break, No School (No Work)

Any permanent employee (including substitutes) interested in any of these positions can apply by emailing a brief letter of interest to Kathy Kane, Director at kkane@valpo.k12.in.us.

Non-employees can apply by completing an online application as an External Applicant here: https://www.applitrack.com/valpo/onlineapp/

Production Lead, TJM, 6.5 hours**NEW**

FS Tech, Flint Lake, 4 hours**NEW**

All VCS employees, whether they have Anthem insurance or not, are eligible to use Immediate Care of St. Mary's Medical Center for non-life threatening emergencies. The visit is free for employees with Anthem insurance and $93 for employees without Anthem. Considering that the average ER visit in Indiana costs $1,618.00, this may be a good option for you and your family. Read more below and contact Haley Jones, Benefit Assistant at ext. 1136 if you have questions or need more information.

Do you need help or a refresher on how to log in to Skyward Employee Access? The file linked below will take you step by step (with pictures) through this easy process. You need to be able to log in to Skyward Employee Access to request time off, print your check or tax forms. When you view your check, you should review the deductions and be sure they are correct based on what you chose during your enrollment appointment with American Fidelity.

Your Perspectives EAP is here to provide confidential, no-cost support for you and your family 24/7.

• Call or text 800.456.6327 to schedule an appointment with a counselor or contact us for in-the-moment support.
  

• Use the “Live Chat” feature on your Perspectives Online Portal to instant message with a counselor 7 a.m.-9 p.m. CST Mon.-Fri. (Remember to use your unique Access Code, and your Password is perspectives

Resources

• Grief Handout
• Stress Response Guide
• Collective Trauma & 10 Tips for Coping

Past issues of Friday Focus are posted on our department website on the Staff Training page here:

https://www.valpo.k12.in.us/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=1221036&type=d&pREC_ID=1455849

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Our mission is to support academic and lifelong success by nourishing students and building healthy eating habits.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

Email: kkane@valpo.k12.in.us
Website: https://www.valpo.k12.in.us/apps/pages/nutrition
Location: 2727 N. Campbell St., Valparaiso, IN 46385
Phone: (219) 531-3050
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ValpoSchoolFood
Twitter: @ValpoSchoolFood

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