Family is a big reason why Amanda Kmiec works in food service.
Her two older sisters work in nutrition services and served as her mentors as she advanced through her education and career.
She’s now the director of nutrition services at USD 257, on behalf of OPAA. The national food service provides school meals for students at Iola schools. Kmiec serves as a kitchen manager to oversee the staff and day-to-day operations.
And though her sisters may have helped her get started, it’s her two sons, Kolby, 19, and Landen, 16, who inspire her the most.
“I remember what they said about school lunches, and how they didn’t want to eat at school once they got into high school,” she said.
“I think if we give kids a positive outlook about nutrition, we can turn things around.”
So where does she start?
She likes to talk to Iola High School students during meal time, to help her gauge what’s working, what changes need to be made and what food they like.
“Just ask them. They’ll tell you. Kids are very honest.”
KMIEC joined the school district in April.
She’s spent the past few months getting acquainted with the district and its students, particularly as the district prepares to open a new elementary school.
That’s going to be a big change, Kmiec noted.
For years, the kitchen at IHS served as the district’s central kitchen. Meals for three elementary schools were prepared there, as well as the high school meals.
The new elementary school has its own kitchen for preschool through fifth grade.
“It’s been a challenge, so I’m really excited about the new school,” she said.
She’ll continue to be based at IHS, where she has a bit of a connection. She attended IHS for one year in high school, before moving to Erie, where she currently lives.
She graduated from Erie High School and earned a degree as a certified dietary manager five years ago from the University of Florida.
She previously worked in nutrition service in the healthcare industry. After the challenges of working in healthcare during the pandemic, she decided a career change was in order. Her oldest sister works for OPAA and encouraged her to apply.
