PUTNAM — Jeanette LaPlume, Putnam School District’s Food Service director, has been selected by the School Nutrition Association of Connecticut (SNACT) to receive the Rising Star of the Year, Director Award, for 2015-2016. 

As an affiliate of the National School Nutrition Association, SNACT is dedicated to the individual member’s success and the success of their school district’s nutrition program as both work to insure the health and wellness of Connecticut’s school children. The award winners, who are nominated and evaluated by their peers in school nutrition, exemplify the best of child nutrition programs through their professionalism and program innovations.

The award acknowledges the value and contributions of outstanding newer Food Service Directors. Criteria for selection includes how the individual has contributed to their district’s program success, involvement in the SNACT association, leadership and sharing food service and nutrition expertise with community organizations.

LaPlume has been employed in the Putnam school system since February 2015.  She has more than 25 years of experience in the restaurant and food service business.  Prior to coming to Putnam, LaPlume worked as Central Kitchen Manager for the Wallingford Board of Education for 17 years.  Some of her other previous work experience includes work as a line cook, sous-chef and executive chef in several restaurants. LaPlume earned her associate’s degree in culinary arts from Johnson and Wales University in 1989.

Superintendent of Schools, William Hull said, “Jeanette LaPlume has done an awesome job of leading the district’s food service program.  She has been creative and a positive force in providing great food for our students and staff, all while maneuvering through a host of state and federal regulations. We are indeed fortunate to have her in Putnam.”