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WSNA’s 2026 Spring Workshop is designed for school nutrition staff by people who understand your day-to-day work. Join us for practical, hands-on learning that strengthens the ability to advocate for your program, your expertise, and your team. Learn how to confidently navigate difficult situations and confidently explain program requirements to your school community. You’ll hear from fellow kitchen staff experience related to their Administrative Review (AR) experiences as they share tips and tricks to get through successfully. Walk away informed, empowered, and ready to end the year strong!
*If you would like to register multiple members on one invoice, please email [email protected]*
*Scholarships are available for this event! Deadline to apply is March 13*
Agenda:

Location:
Icicle Village Resort 505 Highway 2 Leavenworth, WA 98826
- Room Block Reservations Cut-Off: 3/30/2026
Date:
Saturday, May 2, 2026
Pricing:
Members- $75
Non-Members- $85
Meet the Speakers:
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Mackenna Long is a Child Nutrition Director who understands that successful school nutrition programs run on more than schedules, spreadsheets, and serving lines—they run on people who work well together. With experience leading teams in busy, high-pressure kitchens, [Name] knows that teamwork matters just as much as efficiency (especially on short-staffed days when the milk shows up warm).
Mackenna focuses on building teams grounded in mutual respect, a shared sense of responsibility, and a healthy dose of caffeine and chocolate. They believe that when staff feel appreciated and supported, they are more willing to step in, help each other, and keep things running smoothly—sometimes with a little laughter along the way.
Known for practical, low-stress team-building ideas, Mackenna encourages simple ways to recognize staff, strengthen connections, and bring a bit of fun into the workday. Their goal is to help teams work together not just because they have to, but because it makes the job better—and sometimes even enjoyable. |
Michelle Johnson is a dedicated Kitchen Manager and Head Cook in the district’s central kitchen, proudly serving the same school district she graduated from since 1996. Her journey into school nutrition was inspired close to home—her mother-in-law was the lunch lady at her school, planting the seed for a career rooted in service, care, and community.
With decades of hands-on experience, Michelle blends tradition with innovation, often reviving heart-healthy recipes from the 1970s and 1980s while thoughtfully adapting them for today’s students. She is passionate about scratch cooking, valuing the ability to control ingredients, reduce processed foods, and ensure meals are both nourishing and delicious.
Always curious and creative, Michelle enjoys testing new menu items and introducing students to flavors they may not have tried before. Her approach balances comfort, nutrition, and a genuine love for feeding kids well—one carefully prepared meal at a time. |
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Laurie Ozanich is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and School Nutrition Specialist with more than 14 years of experience in school nutrition. She serves on the WSNA Board, the Washington State School Meals and Food Distribution Advisory Councils, and is a Chef Ann Foundation Fellow. Laurie is dedicated to reimagining school meals through a scratch-forward approach while building strong partnerships with local farms and businesses. |
Hannah is a Registered Dietitian and works as a Field Supervisor for Northshore School District. She currently serves as the WSNA -West Leadership Chair and has 12 years of experience in school nutrition in Washington and Colorado. She enjoy all things food including baking and gardening.
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Abby Miller is a dedicated Registered Dietitian with a Master’s degree in Dietetic Administration and extensive experience in school food service. Since 2017, Abby has been enhancing school meal programs at NEWESD 101, aiming to bring nutritious food and valuable nutrition education to school cafeterias. Before her role with the ESD, she served as a Child Nutrition Specialist for the Utah State Office of Education. Abby is passionate about the impact of school meal programs on children and communities. At home, Abby is a dedicated mother of four and enjoys spending time with her family on their small dahlia farm. |
| Liz is the Director of School Meal Programs for OSPI CNS. She and the school meals team assist LEAs with the operations of NSLP, SBP, SMP, SFSP and FFVP. Prior to joining OSPI, Liz served as a Regional Nutritionist with the United States Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) Western Regional Office and a Coordinator of the National School Lunch Program for the Idaho Department of Education. |
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