From Classroom to Cafeteria: JHS Teachers Serve Lunch with Smiles

BY SOFIA BOUTSIKOS ’29

On Wednesday, January 21, teachers sought a way to engage with students outside the classroom, and what better way than serving lunch? The idea to serve lunch was formed in collaboration with the Jericho administration and the Jericho Teachers Association (JTA). Inspired by Mr. Manuel, the Assistant Superintendent for Business, teachers served students lunch not only to interact with students on a different level, but also to gain a clearer understanding of the challenges cafeteria workers face firsthand every day. 

Jericho Teachers Association President Dr. Hartnett said, “We all play different roles in the Jericho community, including the secretaries, the custodians, the security team, and the cafeteria workers, who are here to make the students have better days. The teachers are part of that. No matter what the role, the entire staff is part of that.”  

Overall, the student body responded positively to their teachers serving lunch, as smiles filled the cafeteria. Dr. Hartnett said, “I think our decision to serve in the cafeteria (besides the idea that we thought it might be fun) reminded us that all of our roles are fluid — every member of the staff helps students in myriad ways. On many levels, we are all teachers.”

Some students verbalized that while it was initially a little awkward to see teachers outside of the classroom, it actually was nice to get a different perspective on their educators. Akshita S. ’29 said, “honestly it was kind of funny seeing teachers serving us lunch instead of how we usually see them teaching in class. At first, it felt a bit awkward walking up to the line and seeing my actual teachers there, but after a minute, it made lunch feel much more chill as I was able to talk to them without it being about grades or their class.” While it was a small action to serve lunch, it was a big deal for teachers, who gave up prep periods and their own lunch to be around their students. Akshita said, “It wasn’t a huge life-changing thing or anything, but it definitely made teachers seem more normal and easier to talk to.”

Overall, the event offered students and teachers a new take on the daily work that keeps the cafeteria running. Teachers serving lunch highlighted the team work, patience, and effort that many might take for granted, while also strengthening the sense of community within the high school. Even though this event might’ve been small, it was mighty in its impact, as moments like these remind everyone that school is more than classes: it is a shared space built on respect and appreciation.

So, the next time you’re heading through the lunch line, keep your eyes peeled: you never know which familiar face might be holding your French toast sticks.