December 2024 Team Member of the Month

Every day, school support staff play a vital role in shaping students' lives. For Brooke Black, serving the students and staff at North Rock Creek Public Schools isn't just a job—it's a calling. Recognized by a fellow team member for her dedication and impact, Brooke is our Keystone Food Service Team Member of the Month.

When asked how it feels to be recognized by her peers, Brooke's response is heartfelt, "Wow! I feel so honored and thankful for the recognition. It makes me proud of all the work my team and I have done!"

This humility and gratitude underscore her commitment to making a difference every day. Melissa Wesley, Keystone Vice President of Operations/Sales/Catering, adds, "Brooke truly upholds every standard! She goes above and beyond daily to ensure they (students) are well cared for!"

One guiding principle that resonates deeply with Brooke is Grandmother Standard #5: Take time to make our customers feel special. This standard reflects her belief in the power of personal connection. "Engaging with the students and staff at the school is so important. Making them feel special will keep them coming back. I recently went to a play, and a student from NRC was a character in the play. He was so happy, pointed at me, and said, 'Hey, I know you.' It's the little things in life that matter the most," she shared. Moments like these highlight how Brooke's intentional kindness builds trust and joy within her school community.

For Brooke, serving students is more than providing meals; it's about creating a safe, welcoming environment where every child feels valued. She explains, "It's important to me because I can remember the lunch ladies when I was in school! I still talk to one of them to this day. We have no clue what a student's life looks like outside of school. If I can make that one kid feel special and fed, that is what it is all about!" She also emphasizes the unique role her team plays, "This is the only room in the school where the kids feel no pressure; us smiling and engaging in conversations with them may just make their day."

Brooke's story reminds us that seemingly small acts of kindness can have a lasting impact. Her dedication inspires her colleagues and anyone striving to make a difference in their community.