The New York State Department of Education awarded North Colonie Central School District’s Food Service Department with two “2006 Best Practices” awards. The first is for “Excellence in Improving the Cafeteria Environment” and the second is for “Excellence in Managing a Kitchen/Cafeteria Facelift.”

“This is the first time the district has won two awards in the same year,” said Food Service Director Melodie Marco.

Marco attributes the recognitions to the new equipment in both Lafollette and Taft cafeterias at the high school, as well as a new serving area for Taft students to go to and an expanded serving area for Lafollette. The high school cafeteria environment has had a facelift, with new tables and additional seating areas.

Behind the scenes has been improved as well. The working kitchen now has new equipment such as walk-in freezers, coolers and a dishwasher, said Marco.

Last year the district won a similar “Best Practice” award for nutrition education.