On May 2, 2025, YES Prep campuses came together to celebrate our incredible Child Nutrition teams—our Lunch Heroes—on National Lunch Hero Day. These often unsung champions ensure our students have the nutritious meals they need to succeed each day. This year, our celebration included some special guests: the K-9 units from the Houston Police Department (HPD) and Humble Police Department, bringing a unique blend of community spirit, public safety, and gratitude to the occasion.
YES Prep Southside Elementary: Honoring Lunch Heroes and HPD K-9 Unit
The day kicked off bright and early at YES Prep Southside Elementary, where the HPD K-9 Unit joined campus leaders, Child Nutrition staff, and excited students for breakfast. The event began with a warm welcome from the Southside leadership team, followed by a chance for students to meet the officers and their K-9 partners.
“Lunch Hero Day is one of our favorite celebrations! It’s all about showing appreciation to our amazing cafeteria staff who serve nutritious meals and big smiles every day. This year, our celebration at Southside Elementary was made even more special with a visit from the Houston Police Department’s K-9 Unit! Students were filled with excitement in the breakfast line, and our staff went above and beyond serving with heart, pride, and plenty of positive vibes. It was a morning full of joy, community, and celebration!” – Maria Alvarado, Child Nutrition Executive Assistant
Students had the unique opportunity to ask questions, take photos, and interact with the HPD officers, learning firsthand about the important role these canine teams play in community safety. The morning continued with a heartfelt recognition speech from Hilda Centeno, Child Nutrition Operations Specialist, who expressed deep appreciation for the dedication and care our Lunch Heroes show every day. The officers joined in this moment of gratitude, making the morning both memorable and meaningful.
YES Prep North Central Elementary: Celebrating Lunch Heroes with Humble PD K-9 Unit
Later in the day, the celebration continued at YES Prep North Central Elementary, where the Humble PD K-9 Unit brought their energy and enthusiasm to the cafeteria for a special lunchtime event. As fourth graders enjoyed their meals, they had the chance to interact with the officers and meet their highly trained K-9 partners. The atmosphere was filled with curiosity and excitement as students asked questions and snapped photos with their canine heroes.
“We wanted students to see that heroes aren’t just found out in the community—they’re also right inside the very schools they attend. Our Lunch Heroes ensure every student is nourished and ready to take on the day with energy and confidence. It was an honor to have the Humble K-9 Unit join us in celebrating, even enjoying a meal alongside our school heroes. Together, they showed what true service looks like.” – Maria Carlos, Child Nutrition Operations Manager
During the lunch period, Bryan Castillo, CN Operations Specialist, delivered a powerful message of gratitude to the Lunch Heroes, highlighting their essential role in supporting student success. The officers added their voices to this appreciation, reminding students of the critical work their cafeteria teams do each day..
Thank You to Our Lunch Heroes and Community Partners
We extend our deepest thanks to our dedicated Child Nutrition teams for their tireless commitment to our students. We also appreciate the HPD and Humble PD K-9 units for joining us in this special celebration, helping us honor the heroes who nourish and support our students every day. See highlights from this special event here.