Nicole Barnes

Scottsdale Unified School District

Ms. Barnes has made significant and comprehensive improvements to Saguaro High School's Breakfast and Lunch Program since becoming the Cafeteria Manager, greatly impacting the students' dining experience. She has introduced a greater variety of hot and cold meal choices, with over 20 different options available daily, catering to various dietary preferences including gluten-free and vegetarian choices. The addition of a salad bar, featuring a rotating selection of fruits and vegetables, has been particularly popular. Her responsiveness to student requests has led to the incorporation of extra items within nutritional guidelines, such as yogurt smoothies, and the posting of menus at the entrance to inform students of their options. As a result, participation in the lunch program has doubled, ensuring that more students are well-fed and satisfied.