In an effort to expand staff appreciation efforts, the Sioux Falls Public Schools Education Foundation has catered meals for staff at six schools without PTOs/PTAs. Staff at Laura B. Anderson Elementary enjoyed a hot breakfast on their first day back before school started in August. A week later, Education Foundation staff and volunteers surprised Sue Bills, teacher at Whittier Middle School, with breakfast for her and the 75 colleagues who work in her building. Bills is the longest-tenured teacher in the Sioux Falls School District; she has taught at Whittier for 44 years. At the end of August, staff at Horace Mann Elementary received hot lunch.
Sunny’s Pizzeria provided 24 pizzas for staff at Lowell Elementary in November. We staggered the deliveries so all employees could enjoy a hot meal. In December, as part of holiday festivities, the Education Foundation catered lunch for staff at Cleveland Elementary and Hayward Elementary. Since these schools do not have parent organizations, they typically do not have individuals or groups bringing in meals or treats at the start of the year, during conferences, or around the holidays.
“We have heard that often during the school day, staff members take something to the lounge to heat up, and while it’s cooking, they will get an email or phone call from a parent or colleague. By the time they have responded to the message or returned the call, their food is cold,” said Allison Struck, executive director of the Education Foundation. “Catering a meal gives staff an opportunity to enjoy one another’s company and breakfast or lunch. Food brings people together, and we’re happy to fill a gap at schools that do not have PTO support.”