When the lunch bell rings in the New Glarus School District, the rhythm of the day shifts. Trays clatter, laughter bounces off cafeteria walls, and the scent of something warm and familiar fills the air. Behind every serving line is a team that knows each face, every favorite meal, and the quiet comfort that comes with a good lunch shared among friends.

Leading that effort is Food Service Director Rebecca Derke, an employee of Taher, Inc., the food service management company contracted by the district to feed students in the New Glarus School District. Taher, based in Minnesota, manages meal programs for schools, universities, businesses, and senior dining facilities across the country. Founded in 1981, the company focuses on preparing fresh meals that meet USDA nutrition standards. They serve more than 34 million meals each year.

“We take a great deal of pride in feeding our students every day,” Derke said. “We’re all parents, too, and we understand how important it is that our students enjoy breakfast and lunch time. A smile goes a long way.”