The non-profit School Nutrition Association has awarded Kim Klapel from Canyon Creek Elementary School in Bothell the Northwest regional Manager of the Year Award, considered the highest honor a school nutrition manager can earn. The award recognizes a cafeteria manager who has demonstrated dedication and ingenuity to improve his or her school meal program.

Klapel’s dedication to foodservice has enhanced the district’s school nutrition program, helping to establish a cohesive team environment among the 20 elementary schools. Striving to offer an engaging and informative cafeteria experience for her elementary students, Klapel uses kid-friendly, oversized posters to promote “Harvest of the Month” and other healthy options being served. She takes the time to get to know the students, listening to their feedback and offering words of encouragement. Klapel also collaborates with teachers, serving lunch early to accommodate field trips and offering class tours of the kitchen to discuss safe food handling. A positive leader, Klapel works closely with her staff, training them on menu planning techniques and efficient food preparation. In an effort to serve her community, Klapel initiated a shoe drive for the Redeeming Soles organization, collecting 250 pairs of shoes throughout the district.

“On the front lines of school nutrition programs, dedicated cafeteria managers positively impact their students, working hard to provide nutritious, appealing meals and spearheading creative initiatives in the cafeteria,” said SNA President Julia Bauscher. “Kim goes above and beyond to enhance the Canyon Creek Elementary School community, and embodies the passion of school nutrition professionals.”

The Manager of the Year Award is in honor of Louise Sublette, a leader in school nutrition in her state and in the national School Nutrition Association. During her 43 years in the profession, Sublette worked in many areas of foodservice—public schools, colleges, hospitals and elderly feeding programs. Sublette dedicated her career to honoring school nutrition professionals and ensuring those who work in school cafeterias have access to professional development opportunities, empowering them to help their school meal programs flourish.

In July, Klapel will be honored during the Awards Ceremony at the School Nutrition Association’s Annual National Conference in Salt Lake City, UT.