“I love getting to see the same kids every day,” says Billinda Kittinger, cafeteria manager at Southside Elementary. “They’ll come up and grab you and hug you every day.” Billinda continues to describe these sweet moments, “They’re so tired in the mornings. I say, ‘Are you still tired? You better wake up!’ and they grin real big.” For her dedication to her work, her appreciation of her staff, and her love of students, Mrs. Kittinger is the recipient of the 2018-2019 Woodford Outstanding Service Award for Southside Elementary.
Throughout her time working at Southside, it is evident that Billinda has made an impact on the school; Jeremy Reynolds, principal of Southside, remarks, “Billinda has transformed the culture in our cafeteria. She works tremendously with our staff and does whatever it takes to ensure every child's needs are met.” Billinda started as a lunchroom monitor and later became a cook when the kitchen had an open position. Now, as the cafeteria manager, she ensures that all of the functions of the cafeteria are running smoothly and that Southside is equipped to feed hundreds of children each day.
Courtney Quire, Food Service Coordinator for the district, says, “Billinda is frequently on the register. She knows all of the kids and knows their names...She’s a perfect employee, and she gets along so well with the kids; you can tell she really cares about them.” Billinda certainly does have a heart for children. She says that her favorite part of her role is simply getting to see students enjoy their lunch. She remarks, “Whenever it’s one of the kid’s favorite meals, they are always so excited. It’s nice getting to see them have a good time at lunch and enjoy time with their friends.”
The positive, lunchroom experience at Southside is in large part due to the efforts of
Mrs. Kittinger and her team. Courtney says, “Billinda has the best demeanor and a very calming presence, which is wonderful in a manager. She is very kind and thoughtful.” Courtney continues, “You don’t see her in her office; she is always working side by side [with her staff].”
Billinda enjoys working closely with her staff. She says that the entire staff at Southside has always been great. “They try to make it easy for everyone and make it enjoyable to come to work.” She smiles and says, “This is a great place to come to work.” Billinda adds, “I really think Woodford County goes above and beyond to make each kid feel special and enjoy coming to school.”
Receiving the Woodford Outstanding Service Award surprised Mrs. Kittinger and made her feel valued by her colleagues. “I know that you can work at a job for years, work really hard, and not feel appreciated, but I’ve never felt that way...All of the teachers and staff have been amazing, and they seem to really appreciate what we do here, and they know that we work hard.”
Stephanie Wells, teacher at Southside, agrees with this statement. She remarks, “Every day the students know they are going into a place where they will not only be fed but will be greeted with a smile. This is also evident with everyone that works with Belinda. They all work so well together and you can tell each appreciate each other and teamwork is evident. That kind of environment can only happen with a terrific leader! Southside is fortunate to have her!”
Billinda continues to create a productive and efficient cafeteria with a warm, caring atmosphere; we are grateful to have her selflessness and work ethic in our district.
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