Before the first bell rings, Ms. Karen Ball is already on campus, checking emails, covering staffing gaps, and making sure kitchens across the Syosset school district are running smoothly. The General Manager for Whitsons, Ms. Ball has been with the company for 17 years and begins her day as early as 5:30 a.m., sometimes even earlier if a team member calls out.
“My first task is to check for staff call-outs and find coverage if needed. Then I monitor kitchens, check the serving lines, and go through emails about student accounts or ordering,” said Ms. Ball. From allergy tracking to stepping in during lunch rushes, she juggles it all with energy and care. She said, “There’s always something new popping up, but at the heart of it, I just want to make sure the students are taken care of.”
Ms. Ball first joined school food service in 2007 so she could be home with her three children after school. What began as a practical decision turned into a career with purpose. “Food plays such an important role in student learning, and I’m making sure they’re fueling their minds,” she said. She now brings fun to menus with student-inspired dishes and themed events, like carnival-style honey fire sauce popcorn served with a popcorn machine. “We like to make school nutrition fun for students whenever we can,” said Ms. Ball.
Across the line, Kenol Desir is already laying out dough and prepping pizzas by 5:40 a.m. He starts his routine by unlocking the fridges, spreading sauce, adding cheese, and prepping toppings, all by hand. “Students may not realize how much prep work goes into it, but I enjoy making pizza from scratch,” he said. Mr. Desir, who recently moved to the U.S., found his first opportunity with help from Ms. Ball. Outside of school, he takes English classes and adjusts to a new life. Inside, he brings warmth and humor to the cafeteria. “We often share a laugh, which makes the day more enjoyable.”
Their stories may be different, but their mission is the same: to nourish and care for Syosset students one meal at a time. Ms. Ball said, “It’s a whirlwind…But I’m committed to my team and truly love what I do.”
