Sandoval’s journey with Kenmore Elementary began as a parent volunteer, where she assisted teachers in preparing classroom materials while her children attended the school. Encouraged by staff to apply for a position, she joined the campus as a noon Nutrition Services Aide. Since then, she has become a familiar and trusted presence in the cafeteria, continuing her work long after her children completed their education in BPUSD.
“I love what I do. It makes me very happy to be here,” Sandoval said.
In her role, Sandoval supports daily cafeteria operations by supervising students, ensuring they receive balanced meals, replenishing food lines, and assisting with cleanup. She also steps in to support her team wherever needed, including working the register and helping maintain an organized and welcoming environment for students during mealtimes.
Sandoval emphasizes that the cafeteria is more than just a place for meals. She values the small but meaningful interactions that take place during lunch, recognizing the importance of ensuring students are nourished while also providing opportunities to connect with their peers. For some students, she noted, school meals may be one of their most reliable sources of nutrition, making her role even more meaningful.
Sandoval has also played a critical role in student safety. On two separate occasions, she responded to students experiencing choking emergencies, quickly intervening and helping to save both students. She described the moments as impactful experiences that have stayed with her, recalling how she immediately thought of her own grandchildren, who are the same age.
She takes pride in seeing students grow over time and finds joy in watching them leave the cafeteria happy each day. Looking ahead, Sandoval plans to continue serving the Kenmore Elementary community while also cherishing time with her grandchildren.
Baldwin Park Unified extends its gratitude to Sandoval and all nutrition services staff for their ongoing commitment to student well-being and success.