School Nutrition Aide (20 hours/week)

Wonder what it would be like to go snowshoeing through a maple forest? Or what it may be like to grow your own food in a greenhouse? Students at West Michigan Academy of Environmental Science (WMAES) don't wonder what they know! Come be a part of our 62-acres of an outdoor classroom to expand your child’s love of learning. Working gardens, nature trails, forests, wetlands and prairies are all available for students to explore. WMAES students transition from desks to dirt, creating an environment for all students to learn. WMAES knows that teachers are the heart of the school and are surrounded by a support system that is committed to the success of every child.

Qualities of a Successful Candidate:

• A comfortability in an outdoor setting and a knack for creativity and innovation, incorporating hands‑on activities, experiential learning, and interactive teaching methods to make environmental/outdoor learning engaging and impactful.
• An unwavering belief that all children regardless of their background can learn and exceed at high levels.
• A strong desire to achieve outstanding results in the pursuit of excellence for students.
• Strong interpersonal skills, fostering positive relationships with children, parents and other staff members. They should be able to work collaboratively, promoting a harmonious learning environment.

About the role

Supporting the school nutrition team to provide students with a safe, attractive, comfortable, clean, and efficient school nutrition program. The focus is on preparing, serving, and maintaining the quality and safety of food in accordance with established guidelines and hygiene standards. With dedication to maintaining a clean and organized kitchen environment, the aim is to support the overall functioning of the school's food service operations. Through effective communication and teamwork, positive interactions are fostered with fellow colleagues, students, and staff members. This position will support and uphold the mission and vision of the environmental academy.

What you'll do

ESSENTIAL PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Oversees preparation, packaging, and distribution of school meals.
• Collects cash for reduced‑price meals and full‑paid meals, as assigned.
• Accounts and reports funds collected for meals for students and adults, as assigned.
• Maintains food preparation and dining areas at ratings exceeding state standards.
• Maintains food service areas, equipment, and furnishings in neat, clean, and appealing condition.
• Achieves high levels of customer satisfaction through student participation rates and by student and adult ratings.
• Promptly reports major repairs needed to the School Nutrition Director.
• Immediately reports any damage to school property to the School Nutrition Director.
• Keeps an inventory of food, supplies, and equipment on hand, and makes requisitions to the School Nutrition Director far enough in advance to sustain a smooth‑running and continuous food service program.
• Demonstrates a basic understanding and implementation of County Health regulations, and MDE School Nutrition Policies/Procedures relative to their work assignments.
• Assumes other responsibilities assigned by the School Nutrition Director or the School Leader.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Solid record of punctuality verified by reference checks.

Desired Qualifications:

• Valid ServSafe Certification.
• Ability to read, follow directions, and maintain records.
• Food service experience in an educational setting.
• Experience working with students from all backgrounds.
• Ability to work effectively with school personnel and students in a diverse school community.

About Choice Schools Associates

West Michigan Academy of Environmental Science (WMAES) is part of the Choice Schools Community. As a comprehensive education service provider, Choice Schools offers a student‑centered approach to tailored school operations support. Much like a superintendent's office, Choice Schools provides invaluable assistance in various crucial areas, including instruction, professional development, curriculum, human resources, finance, compliance, communications, and enrollment. By being a part of the Choice Schools Environmental Model, WMAES is a vibrant community of learning, comprised of multiple other outstanding environmental schools within the state. The Environmental Model will provide you with the support and collaboration of a large district while serving at a tight‑knit community school in your area.