Getting to Know One of Our Outstanding School Lunch Heroes

Meet Rebeca! She has been working in CPS schools since 1999. She explains that she first took a job in a CPS school because she always liked working with kids. Her career path has been very inspiring! Her first role was being a cook, and, now, she is a lunchroom manager for four CPS schools in Chicago’s Pilsen and Little Village neighborhoods. On top of that, she also works as a monitor for after-school programming. 

As you can probably tell, Rebeca keeps herself extremely busy in service of our students and families. That is why we are so excited to recognize her as a School Lunch Hero! We interviewed her to learn more about what has kept her so committed to her role for so many years. Read what she had to say below.

Has the job of a lunchroom manager changed over the years, or has it remained the same? 

It’s not the same at all! When I started, everything, including all of the paperwork, was done by hand. Now, the work takes place more on the computer. I actually didn’t really know how to use a computer very well at first, so I’ve definitely learned a lot through my job. 

What qualities are key to succeeding as a lunchroom manager? 

Being organized is key! I have a calendar that reminds me what I need to do for each school, because each one is different. I post it in my office and try to keep it as organized as possible so everyone on my team can understand it. 

What is one of your favorite memories of being a lunchroom manager? 

One of my favorite experiences was passing out meals when students were learning from home during the COVID-19 pandemic. The families were so grateful to have these meals, and it warmed my heart to be able to help them. 

And, years ago, back when I was a cook, we used to celebrate students’ birthdays once a month. We would pass out little cakes to everyone, and it was so much fun. 

What is a current goal you have? 

I don’t think I currently have a big goal, but I always strive to make things better for my students and my co-workers. I am someone who likes to be part of a team, and I like working with other people in the school to make our jobs more efficient. 

What advice would you give to a new lunchroom manager? 

Be open to others’ opinions, and try to get more experience, because there is always something new to learn each day. Being a manager doesn’t mean that you know everything, so keep being open to learning. 

What is your message to your fellow School Lunch Heroes? 

Let’s keep trying to understand each other better and spend some time in each other’s shoes. That will help us make stronger teams!