Connecting with Kids: A Kitchen Manager’s Delicious Pizza and Chicken Wings Recipe Guide – EdSurge News

The Hidden Heroes in School Kitchens

Cooking at home can feel overwhelming, right? Imagine juggling multiple pots and pans, especially when you’ve got a family to feed. Now, picture that pressure multiplied: cooking for hundreds of hungry students every day. This is the reality for Khallela Ahmad, a kitchen manager at Denver Public Schools.

When Khallela first joined the food service team, she had no idea she’d be cooking for so many people. Starting out, she mostly baked. That was a breeze compared to cooking numerous entrees all at once. “I remember being terrified,” she recalls. But as time went on, she found her rhythm in the bustling kitchen.

Today, Khallela manages a team that feeds up to 500 students daily. Her role goes beyond just cooking; she oversees staff, manages inventory, and engages with students. Food isn’t just a meal; it’s a way to connect and support.

Khallela emphasizes the importance of communication. She believes that showing students they care can make a huge difference. Many kids tell her they miss her when she’s not there. Those simple interactions can brighten their day. According to a recent study, children who feel supported by adults are more likely to succeed in school and life.

On busy days, like pizza Thursdays, the lunch line can be a mad rush. Khallela’s school serves eight to nine different entrees in a single day. This takes teamwork. In her kitchen, roles are shared. While the cook handles the hot dishes, others focus on cold dishes and salads. “We work together like a family,” she says. And when everyone pitches in, shifts run smoother.

The role of school kitchens is changing. As schools emphasize healthier options, Khallela encourages her students to try new foods. “It’s all about expanding their palates,” she notes. If a student is unsure about a dish, she’ll say, “Give it a shot! You might really like it.” And often, they do.

Khallela’s work is not just about feeding kids; it’s about nurturing their spirits. “Many students are going through tough times,” she says. Just a bit of care and conversation can brighten their day. This connection can be transformative. A small gesture can provide comfort amidst challenges.

In managing her kitchen, Khallela juggles numerous responsibilities. From inventory to point-of-sale duties, every day presents its own challenges. One demanding day each month is inventory day, where she counts everything in the kitchen: “It’s time-consuming, but it ensures we have what we need,” she explains.

Khallela didn’t just fall into this line of work. Inspired by her father’s kitchen experience in the Air Force, she sought a position at Denver Public Schools. She quickly rose through the ranks, motivated by a desire to engage more deeply with food service and the community she serves.

As we move forward, it’s essential to recognize and appreciate the dedication of those behind the scenes in school kitchens. Their work and passion not only nourish students but also play a critical role in their emotional and social development.

In today’s schools, the kitchen is more than a place to prepare meals; it’s a space for connection, understanding, and growth. Every meal served is another chance to make a positive impact in the lives of young people.

For more on the importance of healthy eating in schools, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

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