Nancy Jones, the lead assistant in the cafeteria at Athens-Chilesburg Elementary, has received the 2013 Heart of the Program Award from the Kentucky School Nutrition Association. This statewide honor recognizes the valuable contributions of school nutrition employees who prepare and serve appetizing meals to students. Award recipients are known for their customer service, interest in young people, cooperation and creativity.
“It’s amazing what she does,” said ACE cafeteria manager Connie Whitaker, who nominated Jones. “She knows the kids who come through by name. She is the ‘heart of the program’ and just jumps right in there and does it all.”
Jones has worked at ACE since it opened in 2006; she was also at Julius Marks Elementary for two years.
“I enjoy the kids coming through and being able to talk to them and make them smile. I run the register during lunch, so I get to see all the students on my side. They really make your day,” she said.
Jones will receive a pin, certificate and ribbon during the Kentucky School Nutrition Association’s conference June 17-19 at the Lexington Center. In addition, all the state winners will be recognized at the national conference July 14 in Kansas City, Mo.