School Spotlight
Recently IEC Director, Dan Dreyer, made a trip north and stopped at Albert Lea High School to see their kitchens and commons area that were built eight years ago, but still look new today. The high school foyer was an impressive two story area with their team mascot, a giant tiger, climbing down from the second level to the floor.
Albert Lea enrolls 3,500 kids with 1,100 at the high school. The district employs 38 food service staff members, has 7 buildings and 6 production sites. Mary Nelson RD (Director) has been at Albert Lea for over 18 years. Jayne Sigurdson is the high school Foodservice Manager and has been in the role for over 5 years.
You can see from the pictures that the high school is state of the art. From the fully equipped spotless kitchen to their “Carousel” (fully automated system for dirty trays and dishes) to the wonderful full glass commons area for kids to sit and enjoy their lunch. Mary worked hard with the architects to include a food court atmosphere. Kids can go from station to station (if they like) to get different items to make up their fully reimbursable meal.
With this new addition they have seen participation increase over 70% at the high school and as high as 85% at the middle and elementary schools! Mary and Jayne both mentioned the support of their staff, administration and high school Principal Mr. Alan Root have all made their food service a success.
The kids are happy they said, and they get a large variety of choices each day and the quality is top notch. Kids are used to fast service; they make their selections, punch in their PIN number and away they go! Schools that are considering a remodel or new high school should see Albert Lea High School; they are a well oiled machine. GO TIGERS!!
