OSC Outreach and Support allows Bedford Schools to Implement the Cleveland Food Bank Summer Nutrition Program and the OSC Farm to School Program.
Jennifer Dickson, fueled by passion and partnership, is a trailblazer in Bedford Schools’ Food Service.
One of Jennifer’s most recent achievements is her role in the Cleveland Food Bank’s Summer Nutrition Program. When the Ohio Schools Council sought participants for the program last summer, Jennifer was quick to step up. Bedford served a remarkable 3,166 meals to children during the program, an achievement that highlights her unwavering dedication to ensuring no child goes hungry, even when school is out.
Jennifer’s leadership has also been instrumental in Bedford’s Farm-to-School program, which she launched nearly seven years ago with the support of the Ohio Schools Council. “OSC has been an incredible partner,” she says. “Their general food bids and local fresh farm-to-school bids save us time and money, which I can invest back into my team.” The program connects students with local farmers, introducing them to fresh produce and allowing them to learn firsthand about where their food comes from.
In the Bedford City School District, Jennifer Dickson is more than a food service director; she’s a pioneer transforming school cafeterias into creative hubs that engage students and nourish them in ways that extend far beyond a standard lunch tray. Her passion for fresh, healthy food and innovative approaches to school nutrition has earned her a reputation as a leader and strong partner of the Ohio Schools Council, leveraging their resources to bring her visionary ideas to life.
Jennifer’s dedication to pushing boundaries is evident in every facet of her work. She’s constantly experimenting with new menu items, offering a rotating array of student favorites and health-conscious options. Her student-led taste testing sessions have become a staple in Bedford Schools, where students not only taste but vote on what will become part of their cafeteria lineup. This level of engagement has fostered a connection between the students and their food, empowering them to make choices and enjoy their meals.
A key element of Jennifer’s success is her commitment to grants that support K-12 food service programs. Her tireless pursuit of these opportunities is reflected in the grow machines carefully scattered throughout the high school, producing fresh greens for students’ meals. “It’s not just about feeding students; it’s about educating them on the power of fresh, healthy food,” Jennifer explains.
Jennifer’s passion extends beyond food, resonating with her staff through her unique leadership style. Inspired by her love of bees, which she believes are essential to the balance of nature, she wears a necklace with a bee pendant and gifted her entire school nutrition staff the same symbol. “I remind them to ‘bee themselves,’” Jennifer shares, “because everyone brings something unique to our team.” She supports and educates her staff, noting that access to the OSC Food Service Program allows her to dedicate more time to training. “I’m the fastest one to cut a watermelon, but not everyone is, so I get to show them,” she laughs. Jennifer Dickson’s partnership with the Ohio Schools Council and her forward-thinking approach to food service have made her a standout leader in Bedford Schools.
She’s not only providing students with nutritious meals but also enriching their educational experience. Through her efforts, Jennifer is ensuring that the next generation understands the value of fresh food and community” and that’s something truly worth buzzing about.
