Aramark Student Nutrition Partners with Okaloosa County School District to Transform the Student Dining Experience

Aramark Student Nutrition announced today a new partnership with the
“The pathway to a successful hospitality program can be found in the trusting relationships we build with the community, celebrating local culture, prioritizing student engagement, and delivering nutritious meals every day,� said Barbara Flanagan, President and CEO of Aramark Student Nutrition. “We know that intentional listening, paired with meaningful data-driven programming, will power the potential of students within and beyond the classroom.�
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“We are excited to partner with Aramark Student Nutrition to reimagine the student dining experience across Okaloosa County,� said Assistant Superintendent Grant Myer. “This partnership goes far beyond the cafeteria. It’s about creating a culture of wellness, introducing students to fresh, locally sourced foods, and listening to their voices in shaping what’s on their plate. From innovative dining concepts to career opportunities for area residents, this collaboration aligns with our commitment to support the whole child academically, socially, and nutritionally.�
The District is also welcoming a local chef, Michael Stanley, who has deep roots in the community and experience managing a popular local food truck, Stanley’s Street Treats, serving gourmet sandwiches and desserts. Chef Stanley will play a pivotal role in training food service staff, ensuring consistency in food quality and hospitality across all schools. His culinary expertise will also help bring in local flavors and fresh ingredients.
To further enhance the program,
- A farm to school initiative featuring Discovery Day—a hands-on program that introduces students to fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables, prepared and presented by the chef and food service team, and celebrating local agriculture, healthy habits, and the power of listening to student voices.
- A Student Experience Ambassador dedicated to leading marketing and communications efforts, amplifying student voices, and fostering a sense of pride and ownership among students and families.
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A robust survey platform to capture regular feedback from students, principals, and staff, enabling a data-driven approach to continuously improve the program. This feedback will help Aramark Student Nutrition tailor its culinary program to the unique preferences of
Okaloosa County students, while ensuring alignment with USDA guidelines. -
Okaloosa County investment through expanded hiring, competitive wage increases, and annual recognition events that celebrate their contributions.
About Aramark Student Nutrition
is at the forefront of powering student potential through exceptional food services in K-12 schools and school districts. With more than 60 years of industry experience and serving over 270 million meals annually to 1.5 million students nationwide, Student Nutrition fosters brighter futures through creative, diverse, and nutrition packed menus featuring fresh, local ingredients. Connect with to learn more.
Aramark (NYSE: ARMK) proudly serves the world’s leading educational institutions, Fortune 500 companies, world champion sports teams, prominent healthcare providers, iconic destinations and cultural attractions, and numerous municipalities in 16 countries around the world with food and facilities management. Because of our hospitality culture, our employees strive to do great things for each other, our partners, our communities, and the planet. Learn more at and connect with us on , , , and .
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Heather Dotchel
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Source: Aramark