‘I don't do it for the money, I do it for the kids’: Examining school foodservice staff and student interactions using the lens of school connectedness

Abstract

This study investigated social interactions between students and school foodservice staff in six US school districts. Qualitative data was analysed from 23 in-depth interviews with school foodservice managers and 17 focus groups in five high schools, seven middle schools and five elementary schools. Applying the lens of school connectedness, findings highlight the various forms of care experienced by students and staff. However, structural constraints limit opportunities for staff and students to interact and demonstrate care, suggesting potential opportunities for interventions to enhance the role of the cafeteria in contributing to students' socialemotional well-being.