In the LCDS dining commons, there are three of the school’s most hardworking, friendly, and approachable people: April Boyd, Deb Lewis, and Hattie Mayo.
As April serves food, she’’ll ask about the student’s day, while being conscious of the students’ food allergies.
Deb works quickly while processing payments, ensuring the line of students and staff keeps moving. While working diligently, and counting all the items you may have, she shows the friendliest smile and inquires about your upcoming weekend plans.
Hattie is spotted floating around the dining commons, assisting any of the staff members if they need it, and making sure all students and staff are ok while getting food.
Our diligent lunch staff have all been working here for different sets of time, but have still had an immense impact on our community.
LCDS students and staff shared heartwarming stories with The Fourth Estate regarding the school’s lunch ladies.
Junior Momin R. says, “[April] would make the croissant breakfast sandwiches without sausage because sausages aren’t halal.” Momin went on to explain how safe he feels coming to school, when there are people like April who prioritize the wellbeing of the students.
Another member of the LCDS junior class, Jack B., shared his experiences with April saying “I often talk about music with her,” he said. “She tells me of all the concerts she’s been to and all the experiences she’s had with music.”
Jack explained he met her favorite guitarist, Tom Marello of Rage Against the Machine, and showed April the pictures he took with the guitarist, which deepened his understanding of her love for music and their overall bond.
Deb is another beloved member of the lunch staff. She has been working in the LCDS dining commons for nearly 20 years, and has been a symbol of kindness and approachability in her time here.
Working in a PS-12 school means having the ability to effectively communicate with members of all divisions. Hattie, Deb, and April all possess those qualities, and the school appreciates them for that.
Eighth grade student, Roman M. was a new student upon entering middle school, and coming from a different school, the culture at LCDS was something Roman had to get used to. When he recalls early interactions with LCDS members, the lunch staff are the first people who come to mind.
“The lunch ladies, specifically Deb, were really nice to me. They really helped me feel comfortable at school,” says Roman.
Hattie has been a part of the lunch staff for 10 years. She explained her experience of watching the students grow up by saying, “I love that I get to see you all every year, get a little older and wiser and see how it changes you.”
Freshman Willjaden C. explained his number of pleasant experiences with Hattie, “[Hattie] is super easy to have a conversation with. Talking with them is always super cool.”
As we’ve seen through student and teacher interactions, our diligently working lunch staff has an impact much more immense than the food they prepare.
