By: Ana M. Pichardo—
Muncie Community Schools, Chartwells K12 and SSC Services for Education are kicking off a new partnership to enhance area schools and cafés through a strong commitment to the great teams already engaged in Muncie schools, passionate support for the community, fresh, student-focused menus and facilities plans to support continued upgrades in the facilities program. The transition for these partnerships begin March 19 for Chartwells K12 and March 21 for SSC Services for Education. Students will notice immediate impact upon return from Spring Break.
“Chartwells and SSC reflect our district’s goals, mission and values and will prove outstanding partners to MCS, our administration, faculty, staff and students,” said Dr. Steve Baule, Muncie Community Schools Superintendent. “Both are committed to supporting our schools through enhancements in facilities and cafés as well as community support and local sourcing. We are eager to see these great changes come to life for Muncie students and the community.”
Along with a new Executive Chef and additional management team support, Chartwells K12’s team of culinary experts and dietitians will collaborate with Muncie Community Schools’ nutrition associates to introduce a new student café including menus designed specifically for Muncie students. In addition, the complete menu, nutrition and allergen information will be available to students, families and the community on a customized website and app.
“We are thrilled to partner with Muncie Community Schools and to work with the dedicated team of associates who have nourished Muncie students for many years,” said Rhonna Cass, CEO Chartwells K12. “We’re looking forward to community engagement and input as we create a new dining experience that highlights fresh ingredients and local flavors while building a truly student-inspired café program.”
Often schools are the primary source of nutrition for many students, and the partnership will also allow Muncie Community Schools to offer additional resources to students and families through support of a backpack program in coordination with Second Harvest Food Bank, a summer meal program and meal protocol during school closures such as snow days.
In addition to new menus and recipes, Muncie Community Schools will benefit from additional attention to improving school facilities for students, faculty and staff through a new partnership with SSC.
“Our enthusiasm in partnering with Muncie Community Schools is rooted in providing a safe, healthy environment for Muncie students to learn and thrive,” said Seth Ferriell, President SSC. “Our commitment is to deliver a superior learning and working environment for students and staff and provide a smooth, successful transition for the great team already in place in Muncie’s schools.”
Both teams prioritize a smooth transition for all existing Muncie Community School’s food service and facilities employees who will be hired by Chartwells and SSC in their current position while receiving increases in pay and benefits eligibility. Both groups also share a commitment to providing training and ongoing development opportunities for team members.
About Chartwells K12
Chartwells K12 provides for more than 600 school districts, ranging from large public institutions to small charter and private schools, all with expansive needs. Chartwells K12 is a culinary-focused organization with a mission to extend its passion, dedication, knowledge and enthusiasm into serving each student delicious and nutritious meals. The company is built on decades of food and education experience and driven by top culinary, nutrition, wellness and sustainability talent. Chartwells K12 is a part of Compass Group, an international leader in foodservice management and support services. For more information, visit http://www.ChartwellsK12.com/
About SSC Service for Education
SSC Service for Education based in Knoxville, Tennessee provides customized facility solutions to over 100 educational clients in 22 states including Indiana. Our 8000+ employees partner with these educational institutions to further the success and well-being of students, staff, and faculty by delivering quality facilities programs – custodial, grounds, and maintenance. As a trusted and specialized provider, we are committed to enhancing educational settings and creating financial guarantees that can be reallocated into key areas of Muncie Community Schools’ academic mission. With SSC, students and staff flourish in improved surroundings, while you focus on your core objective: educating our future. http://sscserv.com/
About Muncie Community Schools
The Muncie Community Schools (MCS) serve approximately 6000 students from Muncie and the surrounding area. MCS provides a range of diverse opportunities for children as well as adult basic education. For more information about MCS events, programs or services, please contact Ana Pichardo, Director of Communications at 765-747-5210 or apichardo@muncie.k12.in.us. Follow MCS on Twitter at @MuncieSchools and like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/MCS1Official
Ana M. Pichardo is Director of Communications for Muncie Community Schools
