Prior Lake-Savage Area School District Child Nutrition Manager

(Minneapolis, MN – May 2024) - The non-profit Minnesota School Nutrition Association (MSNA) has named Pat Tasse, child nutrition manager for Five Hawks Elementary School in the Prior Lake-Savage Area School District, its 2024 Hero Award winner. The award recognizes an individual who goes above and beyond daily at their job.

Pat Tasse goes out of her way to develop relationships with the students and support the school community with an upbeat attitude and willingness to go above and beyond. She makes the lunchroom an inviting place to visit, with seasonal decorations and a smiling collaborative staff. She makes sure meals served to the students for breakfast and lunch are both nutritious and appealing.

When Tasse noticed not all students were taking vegetables from the school’s garden bar, she wanted to engage them in the growing process. She secured funding to bring a hydroponics tower to the school and now works with fourth and fifth graders weekly to tend the lettuce. She takes extra time out of an already busy day to help the students prune the plants and take care of them, testing to ensure enough nutrients for growth. The students then clean and help prepare the towers for the next batch of seeds once the lettuce is harvested to be served in the cafeteria’s garden bar. Tasse is dedicated to enhancing the educational experience within the cafeteria and instills in students valuable knowledge about healthy eating and sustainable food practices.

“Pat Tasse is known for contributing with a positive attitude and for going the extra mile to volunteer on programs that bring valuable nutrition education opportunities to students,” said MSNA President Michele Hawkinson.

Pat Tasse was presented the award on May 3, 2024, as part of the national School Lunch Hero Day and will also be honored when MSNA members meet for their Annual Conference in Saint Cloud in August.

About the Minnesota School Nutrition Association

The Minnesota School Nutrition Association (MSNA), founded in 1956 as a state-wide association with local chapters, is a non-profit association of over 2,500 members who work to ensure that all children have access to healthy meals and nutrition education in Minnesota. For more information about MSNA and upcoming events, please visit www.mnsna.org.