MHS’ team of lunch ladies work so hard to serve the students and staff every day, oftentimes not getting the appreciation they deserve. However, they do not go unnoticed, and today, May 1—School Lunch Hero Day—feels like the perfect time to honor them for their kind words and smiles, which make a huge difference in both MHS students’ and staff days.
MHS is blessed to have seven amazing cooks and kitchen helpers, including Shelly Kraus, Karen Burton, Rachel Burse, Barb Kesler, Sherry Huddleston, Sandra Campbell, and Junsara King.
Senior Emerson Snook described the lunch ladies as “very impactful to our school. Every day they have a smile on their face while serving us and always keep the conversation going!”
Their co-workers appreciate them, as well. Ms. Hettinger explained, “Our cooks and kitchen helpers are joyful, kind, and fun… the way they talk and joke with students going through the lunch line, or even encourage me to try something new they made, is happy and creates a warm community.”
Without lunch ladies as kind as our own, the kitchen and cafeteria would lack the love and warmth students find there. Snook also shared, “Every day when I come to school after Parkland, I always stop in and say hi to them. They are always so nice, and we have a short conversation. This three minute conversation brightens the rest of my day!”
They also regularly make a difference in staff members’ days. Hettinger added, “Every time I go into the kitchen—whether it’s for coffee, lunch, or just to stop in—they seem so happy to see me. We joke and share our lives. If I’m having a rough day or am just tired, they will give me a snack or listen to me to give me a minute of reprieve.” Many students and staff have had similar experiences because the kitchen staff does such a great job of showing kindness to all.
Not only are they kind and caring, but they pay special attention to everyone who comes through their kitchen. Ms. Hettinger noticed that they remember different people’s preferences like her love for cheese and “how Alex Kessler doesn’t eat vegetables; they don’t forget! It’s like getting lunch from your mom or your super fun aunt!”
Snook added that she felt so cared for everyday during volleyball season. “They would ask how the game was the night before, how practice was, and they always made sure that I was okay! They have always cared about me so deeply, and it has truly made an impact on me!”
These efforts go beyond the cafeteria, as well, as the lunch ladies’ kindness encourages students to do the same with the people around them. This week, let one of our great lunch ladies know how much they mean to you, the way they do for you!
Anya Sheppard, Staff Writer
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