The new director of the Food Service Department at Pioneer School District is no stranger to area foodies.
Heidi Schenk Miles takes over for Cate Pritchard, who was director for 18 years. Mrs. Miles has over 30 years experience in multiple divisions of the food service industry. She is a 1988 graduate of Pioneer, holds an associate degree in Restaurant Management from Erie Community College, and a bachelor of science degree in Food Systems Management from SUNY Buffalo.
Since 2004, Mrs. Miles has been owner/operator of Chanderson's Steak & Seafood in Delevan. In that capacity, she has trained staff, purchased and managed food and supplies, planned events, and budgeted resources/personnel.
Asked what excites her about becoming Food Service Director, Mrs. Miles said, "Connecting with the community through the staff and students at Pioneer, and the opportunity to learn and expand the current food service program."
Mrs. Miles said she is currently evaluating cafeteria operations with an eye toward the future. "My plan is to continue the impressive work of the current food service staff and add some fresh ideas to the menus, café and curbside dining," she said.
Mrs. Miles admitted that managing a school district will be somewhat different than operating a restaurant. "[This will be a] totally different Food Service experience. But some things remain the same, such as concentrating on appetizing and nutritious meals, pleasing the clientele, food safety and sanitation, and providing the best possible service."
Mrs. Miles and husband Michael reside in Delevan have two children, Anderson and Chandler.