Cafeteria Manager Serves Lunch and Love

Roxane Pickett is the cafeteria manager for Design Science and Patiño high schools, but also a mentor and support to students. She was a finalist for an Excellence in Education award last year. Design Science Principal Tressa Overstreet said: "Some of our students carry emotional burdens that would cripple an adult. Our students know that Roxane will provide them with encouragement and wise advice."

How long have you been with the district and where did you work before Design Science?

I have been a part of Fresno Unified for over 13 years. Before I joined Design Science I was site coordinator for a city of Fresno senior program.

What do you enjoy the most about being the cafeteria manager?

I enjoy seeing and working together daily with the students and staff.

You do more than manage the cafeteria -- you connect with students. Why is that important?

Having good open communication with our students is a key to creating a positive environment and helps the students know that we are here to help them succeed.

What is the most challenging part about your job?

We currently have two schools sharing one campus; I find it a bit challenging to juggle and accommodate them both on my own.

What is the most popular food you serve?

Spicy chicken sandwich.

If you could serve any meal you wanted to your students, what would it be?

I would have to choose my all-time favorite: sushi with miso soup and white rice. It might sound odd but it's definitely worth a try.

If you were not a cafeteria manager, what job would you choose?

I would like to be a pastry chef or to have opened my own bakery.

What is your dream vacation?

My dream vacation would be a month long of peace and quiet somewhere near the ocean.

What is one thing most people do not know about you?

I'm a huge superhero fan!