Insight: Dining with Care at EPS

By Jacky Lo, Dining Services Director

Food has always held a special place in my life. Growing up in a Hokkienese household, hospitality was woven into our daily routines. In our family, welcoming someone meant offering food, and the question “Have you eaten?” was our way of expressing care. My childhood memories are filled with the aromas and flavors of dishes prepared with love, meals that were more than just nourishment, but a celebration of connection, comfort, and community.

This personal philosophy is at the core of my work as Dining Services Director at Eastside Prep. The responsibility of feeding more than 600 students, faculty, and staff is one I hold with deep respect. Every meal, from breakfast to lunch to snacks, is crafted with attention to nutrition, balance, and taste. I believe that food should not only nourish bodies but also support learning and bring joy. Each menu is carefully planned to offer variety and comfort, reflecting the diverse needs and preferences of our community.

Clarity is a guiding principle in our approach. Understanding dietary restrictions and preferences is not optional. Some allergies are life-threatening, and it is our duty to communicate clearly and work closely with students and faculty/staff. Our goal is to ensure that every meal is not only delicious and nourishing but also safe and respectful of individual needs.

Sharing meals at EPS is a powerful way to build connections and belonging. Lunchtime is more than a pause in the day; it’s a ritual that brings students and faculty/staff together, fostering relationships and a sense of community. Care is reflected in the small moments like greeting students by name, remembering their preferences, and making sure everyone feels included. The gratitude we receive when a favorite dish appears on the menu, or when someone feels seen and valued, reminds us why we do what we do.

Through my work, I have learned that care is both an action and a commitment. Responsibility extends beyond preparing meals; it encompasses consistency, safety, respect for diversity, and showing up every day with intention. My hope is to continue expanding and improving our menu, drawing on my experiences as a professional chef to create meals that are nutritious, delicious, and exciting for our school.

Together with the EPS dining service team, we strive to elevate the food experience at Eastside Prep, building an even stronger, more connected community. Every day is an opportunity to learn, grow, and make a positive impact for our students, faculty, staff, and families.