Jessica Groff

With an average of 130 breakfasts and 220-250 lunches served each day, this month’s Trayblazer takes pride in molding young minds and creating an environment where kids can have fun while enjoying nutritious meals.

Part of what makes Jessica so special and admirable is her deep connection with the students. She knows almost every child by name and finds joy in meeting new faces, making every effort to create a positive and inclusive cafeteria experience. “I’m always telling my employees to think of our five-year-olds as our customer. We need to do all we can to make sure they’re happy. Their input is extremely important.”

Working alongside three other employees on the foodservice team, Jessica describes herself as a customer-centric manager. She’s the kind of leader who’s always striving to keep the kids happy and coming back, valuing their input, and making sure they feel safe and secure even if they’re facing challenges at home. She says, “There’s so much going on in the world, and you can’t let the little things bring you down. When I walk in the school, anything that I have going on that might be bothering me is dropped. These kids need to see smiles and have us at our best.” As a mother of five — three having already gone through her school and the youngest currently in 6th grade — Jessica brings a personal touch to her role. She not only understands the importance of nutrition but also cherishes the opportunity to contribute to the growth and wellbeing of the students. Of her youngest students, Jessica says, “They’re young and so full of life. It’s fun to persuade them to try new, healthy foods.”

Adding creative flair to the cafeteria, Jessica incorporates themes and fun events whenever she can like her beach-themed National School Breakfast Week and serving green eggs & ham for Dr. Seuss's birthday. Even Leap Year becomes a reason for quirky ideas like pancake “lily pads” with a gummy frog on top.