Vicksburg, MS — The Vicksburg-Warren School District (VWSD) recently hosted its annual Child Nutrition Manager Orientation Meeting, welcoming new and returning leaders in school nutrition to a day filled with training, vision-setting, and inspiration.
Held at the VWSD Central Office, the orientation marked a critical first step in ensuring the district’s food service team is prepared for a successful school year. With nearly 7,000 students relying on VWSD cafeterias for daily meals, the role of a Child Nutrition Manager is nothing short of vital.
Setting the Tone: Health, Leadership, and Equity
The day began with a warm welcome from VWSD Director of Child Nutrition Services, Dr. Laird who emphasized the district’s commitment to serving nutritious, appealing meals while fostering a culture of dignity and respect.
Key Training Topics Covered:
USDA and State Compliance Guidelines
staff reviewed updated federal regulations around meal patterns, reimbursable meals, and documentation. A particular focus was placed on equity in meal access and ensuring no student feels stigmatized because of meal status.Team Leadership and Cafeteria Culture
One of the most impactful segments of the day was a leadership workshop focused on building a positive cafeteria team culture. Topics included conflict resolution, effective scheduling, and creating pride in workspaces.
Looking Ahead for 2025–2026, managers received a calendar of upcoming meal schedule and were encouraged to reach out with ideas for innovation. As the orientation wrapped up, VWSD’s Child Nutrition Manager’s and crew walked away ready to serve with excellence, compassion, and purpose.