For the past eleven years, Kat has served as the Director of Food & Nutrition Services at Tahoe Truckee Unified School District (TTUSD), where she has spearheaded a transformative change in the school food landscape. Her primary focus has been to transition the district’s operations from pre-packaged meals to predominantly scratch-made foods. Recognizing the importance of providing fresh, nutritious meals to students, she has worked tirelessly to increase labor hours and source organic and locally grown foods for the school meal program.

Under Kat’s leadership, TTUSD has implemented several sustainable practices, leading to significant recognition, including the prestigious US Department of Education Green Ribbon Award. The district’s commitment to composting, the use of bulk milk dispensers with organic milk, the introduction of a fresh salad bar in every school, and the utilization of reusable silverware and plates have all contributed to this well-deserved honor.

Kat’s passion for fresh, nutritious cooking can be traced back to her roots as a first-generation Persian-American. From an early age, her parents instilled in her the value of cooking and sharing delicious, wholesome meals with family and friends. This profound appreciation for food continues to influence every aspect of her life.

TTUSD’s Food & Nutrition Services owes its success to the unwavering dedication of an exceptional team. Comprising of creative, passionate, and compassionate Chefs, this outstanding group has been instrumental in delivering freshly made meals to an impressive 4,000 students each day. Their hard work and culinary expertise continue to make a positive impact on the health and well-being of the students they serve. Check out their work on Instagram @ttusdfood