Beth Wallace 

West of Denver lies the Jefferson County school district with 150 sites and around 70,000 students. Ensuring all of them receive the meals they need to succeed is Beth Wallace, an intrepid leader with an expansive history of service and a passion for unlocking the potential in everyone she works with.

Beth’s K-12 foodservice leadership career began in Texas where she learned the intricacies of governmental regulations. She has taken that knowledge with her to Colorado where she’s committed to tackling new challenges and making sure students — and her staff — truly thrive. One of her standout qualities is her dedication to her team’s development, encouraging them to achieve their career aspirations no matter what they might be. This commitment to fostering talent has not only strengthened her team but has also built a robust, supportive workplace culture. She says, “I’m passionate about growing people. Whether someone is working in the warehouse or as a dietitian, I want to get people where they want to go.”

This year marks a significant milestone for Beth and her team as they are fully staffed for the first time since COVID-19 disrupted operations. It’s a testament to her resilience and strategic, caring leadership.

When it comes to meal programs, Beth consistently prioritizes access. One notable initiative under her leadership has been helping pass legislation that covered the cost difference for students who qualify for reduced-price meals. That progress has continued, and today ALL students in Colorado public schools eat at no cost.

Another area where Beth’s initiatives have paid off has been breakfast participation. When she first joined Jefferson County Public Schools, not every location provided morning meals, but through hard work and strategic collaboration, every student now has access to a free breakfast to begin their schooldays.