Monroe County School District is very proud to announce that Ms. Effie Jackson, our Food Service Director has been selected as the Management Employee of the Year for 2025. Effie has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication, and a commitment to excellence that has significantly contributed to the success of our district. She has shown remarkable proficiency in managing district operations and her strategic planning and innovative solutions have led to increased efficiency, cost savings, and improved services. For instance, she successfully implemented a new inventory management system that reduced waste and saved the district thousands of dollars annually.
A true leader, Ms. Jackson fosters a collaborative and inclusive work environment. She has successfully mentored and developed team members, encouraging professional growth and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Notably, Effie has provided professional learning opportunities for her managers, helping to bridge the gap in knowledge of policies and procedures pertaining to the National School Lunch Program. She has also encouraged her managers to become more well-versed in these policies and procedures, resulting in a more knowledgeable and effective team.
Indicative of her initiative, Ms. Jackson brought a student enrichment program to the Food Service department that provides educational information on snack items in collaboration with a company called Dick and Jane. They provide graham cracker cookies themed with Spanish and English words, states and capitals, presidents, fitness and fun, and farmers market information. The company also offers an educational digital magazine available on the food service site for families and the community.
Effie also worked closely to develop best practices for school cafeterias and school lunch accounts. She also started an initiative to provide every student the opportunity to receive smart snacks with their meals on certain days by including these items on the menu. This ensures all students can enjoy smart snacks, even if they may not have the money to purchase additional items.
Effie is deeply committed to community engagement. She has spearheaded several community initiatives, such as organizing nutrition workshops for parents and students, which have strengthened the relationship between the district and the community it serves. She also fostered a relationship with the Head Start program to provide food for families at educational family nights. Additionally, Effie has established a community partnership with S.O.S, Star of the Seas, to educate and introduce healthy food options, further promoting wellness within the community.
Going above and beyond her normal duties, Ms. Jackson also nominated Monroe County School District to receive 500 pairs of sneakers for high school student from Gordon Food Services and the Samaritans Feet organization. This generous initiative has provided much-needed support to students and has further strengthened community ties.
Effie truly loves her career in the school nutrition program. Her passion is evident in every aspect of her work, from her innovative initiatives to her dedication to professional development and community engagement. She truly exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding district management employee. Her dedication, exceptional leadership, and commitment to both professional excellence and community service make her a deserving candidate for this prestigious award.
Superintendent Theresa Axford says, “I am beyond ecstatic to recognize Effie as our Management Employee of the Year! She truly embodies the spirit of the award, showcasing exceptional leadership, dedication, and a genuine passion for the well-being of our students. Her ability to manage multiple responsibilities with grace and enthusiasm is truly commendable.”
