Cafeteria workers protest outsourcing proposal

BERKS COUNTY, Pa. — The Daniel Boone Area School Board meeting room was filled with district cafeteria workers Monday carrying signs that displayed their heartfelt requests to “not outsource” them and that “Lunch is Better Local!”

The group was at the school board meeting to protest a proposal before the board to contract with a food-services provider and eliminate the positions of cafeteria workers as school district employees.

“You’re making a big mistake to outsource — the ladies know who has allergies and who doesn’t — they know everyone by name,” said one of the workers, echoing the sentiment of her fellow workers and displaying a petition signed by more than 500 people.

“We’re mothers to every kid in that school. Before they leave that lunch room, we try to make them feel better. I have received letters, and for some it was the only smile they got that day. It is very sad,” she added.

Julia Stark, of Douglassville, said the “lunch ladies” are the backbone of the cafeteria system, they encourage kids to eat more fruits, and they also have ideas to improve the variety of foods kids will enjoy eating.

“They should not have to worry that they will lose their jobs,” said Stark. “Let the lunch ladies be involved in the changes.”

“When do you save money by having someone else do the job?” asked Stephanie Knight of Douglassville. “Local people did not get to vote on this. Don’t take our jobs away.”

Amy Hicks, president of the Daniel Boone Education Association, the teachers’ union, said “outsourcing “ would also affect local economics.

“From an economic standpoint — in Birdsboro they’re trying to revitalize the community, and now outsourcing jobs from people who live here — I’m not sure that will benefit our community,” said Hicks.

The district’s current food services contract with Sodexo Operations LLC of Gaithersburg, Md., expires June 30. Bids are due by April 30 on the district’s solicitation for a Food Services Management Co. — with and without the current cafeteria workers included in the bid offers.

Board President Rich Martino said the cafeteria workers are not included in the current Sodexo contract, and are not currently managed by a Food Service Manager.