Malinda Harris Honored as 2024 Florida School Lunch Hero at Leon High
No Kid Hungry Florida, the Dairy Council of Florida, and The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services honored Malinda Harris, Leon County High School’s dedicated cafeteria manager as a 2024 Florida School Lunch Hero award this morning.
For 23 years, Harris has ensured students and staff are nourished with healthy meals, warm smiles, and encouragement. Her dedication extends beyond her students, engaging with the school community, and forming personal connections with team members, students, and families.
“When it comes to feeding kids it takes a community,” said Sky Beard, director of No Kid Hungry Florida. “Ms. Harris is an excellent example of the hardworking individuals who cook and serve school meals to Florida’s kids ensuring they get the nutrition they need to learn and grow.”
As one of five statewide recipients, Harris was recognized for her unwavering commitment to her students, their families, and the community. An example of Harris’s dedication includes her partnership with guidance counselors and school social workers to overcome cultural and linguistic barriers ensuring each student’s nutritional needs are met.
“School nutrition professionals are an indispensable part of ensuring kids in K-12 have access to healthy meals that include dairy,” said Teresa Moran-Wiebe, VP of the Dairy Council of Florida. “We are proud to partner with the Florida Department of Agriculture and No Kid Hungry to celebrate our School Lunch Heros not only this week but every day in Florida.”
Leon County High School Principal Michael Baron shared “Ms. Harris can best be described as a true team player each and every day. She is always eager and willing to modify her meal preparation and service schedule based on the needs of the school.”
The 2024 Florida School Lunch Hero Award is an annual campaign by No Kid Hungry, the Dairy Council of Florida, and The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services recognizing the importance of school nutrition professionals that feed Florida’s students. Each year, five recipients are selected from a wealth of amazing candidates across the state.
In addition to today’s surprise event, Harris received $2,000 from No Kid Hungry Florida, prize packs from the Dairy Council of Florida, trophies, hero capes, and more from The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Malinda Harris Honored as 2024 Florida School Lunch Hero at Leon High
