NR-S kitchen crew keeps on rockin'

The NR-S kitchen crew is due for a little recognition, as they have gone above and beyond to ensure students are well-fed, no matter the circumstances.

This March, when COVID-19 prompted Governor Doug Burgum to issue an executive order closing all schools within the state, the NR-S kitchen crew teamed up with classroom paraprofessionals and developed a meal delivery program.

It was work that didn’t go unnoticed by NR-S business manager Janet Heskin, who said, “This group has gone above and beyond in preparing, packing and delivering meals (breakfast and lunch) daily to over 225 students each day to the New Rockford and Sheyenne area. Full meals- not just sandwiches!!”

It was a team effort, according to head cook Jennifer Krueger, who said, “We all worked together, but in separate shifts, to ensure we could keep going even if someone fell ill.” The kitchen staff focused on the preparation and packaging of the food, while paraprofessionals - who would normally be in the classroom - worked to deliver the meals.

This school year is starting off in a better spot, but still isn’t quite back to the ‘normal’ to which folks have become so accustomed. Instead, the kitchen crew has been working to develop an alternative system for serving meals to students during the school day.

At the start of the day, students will have access to grab and go breakfast items upon their entry. Krueger explains she plans to feature items like yogurt, juices, fruit cups and breakfast sandwiches that can be taken to the classroom.

“Every classroom will have a microwave for students to use,” Krueger added.

Prior to lunchtime, students will have the option to place an order for a hot lunch from the cafeteria, which will be delivered to the classroom at mealtime. Students also have the option of bringing a lunch from home.

Students 7-12 can also order lunch to be eaten in their classroom or can order a lunch-to-go and take off-campus for lunch.

The kitchen crew’s meal delivery model remains on file, ready to be implemented should the district enter the red level and experience closures.

As many students and parents noted last year, Krueger and the kitchen staff consistently offer a diversity of menu items and still dish up some amazing comfort food. Krueger says that she is extra excited to offer students some of their favorite foods the first week back. “We’ll definitely be serving chicken nuggets,” she said with a smile.