Summer has officially come to an end for local youth, and the Chartwells Summer Youth Food Program was another success.

The program completed its second year, under the direction of Chef Laurence Pena, Director of Dining Services. The work had the support from Los Alamos Public Schools, under the New Mexico CYFD, and funded by the USDA.

The success was seen by almost 275 youth attending daily, which was a 30 percent increase in participation by the community.

The program provided many more hot lunch items, which will find their way to the regular menu this school year. How could school not be fun with Taco Tuesday? This year students also will find the addition of turkey and chicken soft tacos. Menu items may include eggplant parmesan, home style meatloaf and salisbury steak. Rumor also has it that portion sizes have increased for students in 6th grade and above.

More additions have arrived for Barranca Elementary with kitchen facilities. This will allow Chartwells to apply their principles to provide a fresher product. Going green is in the works, with a special nod to Aspen Elementary and Los Alamos Middle Schools and their purchase of plastic trays.

The tigers and hawks will be making a greener future for their schools and their future.

“Kids will take ownership by rinsing trays is soapy bus tubs,” Pena said.

This will serve as a future cost savings in addition to striving for a zero-waste community.

Pena says that going green involves several steps. The multi-faceted effort includes recycling by students, adding plastic, re-useable trays for all sites, new equipment like the certified energy efficient, in the new Barranca kitchen. The future also holds the installation of salad bars at Aspen and Barranca to help reduce food waste. One additional change is sure to have a big impact for the future.

“Paper products are being utilized at all other schools,” Pena said. “We are committed to no more foam or plastic straws.”

Chartwells employee Carmela Alvarez was promoted to Assistant Director of Dining Services. Alvarez will oversee cash controls, training and inventory management. “Carmela has been a great addition to the team,” said Pena. “She has been in the food service industry for many years and brings a wealth of management experience to Los Alamos. Alvarez and husband Michael have two students at Los Alamos Middle School.

Part-time positions are always available and can accommodate the schedule of elementary parents. Learn more by visiting the Chartwells parent group website at www.compassgroupcareers.com. Alerts of available, local job opportunities are just a click away. The Director of Dining Services is available at 505.695.8546.