When we think about what it takes to keep schools running each day, we often picture classrooms, buses, and sports fields. But behind the scenes, another team is just as essential to student success, the leaders who make sure every student has a healthy meal to start the day and fuel their learning. At JP McCaskey and McCaskey East, that responsibility rests in the capable hands of Rochell Whitfield and Nelson Toro-Bitts.
Both bring their own style, energy, and passion to the job, and together they embody what it means to serve with heart.
Nelson Toro-Bitts
Production/Kitchen Manager
Though he has only been with SDoL for three months, Nelson has already taken on significant responsibility. He not only manages the daily food service operations at JP McCaskey but also oversees the preparation of meals that are delivered to schools across the district. That means coordinating menus, production schedules, and ensuring that every tray and packaged meal that leaves JP is ready to nourish students elsewhere.
For Nelson, food has always been about care.
“Cooking has always been my way of caring for people. In Food Services, I get to do that every day by making sure students are fed and cared for.”
He draws inspiration from The Bear on Hulu, a show about the chaos and intensity of kitchen life. For Nelson, the depiction feels authentic with long days, high expectations, and the importance of working as one team. Watching the show reinforces his belief that food service is not just about recipes and portions but about collaboration and pride in the work.
“The teamwork, attention to detail, and the drive to always do better feel very real to what we do in Food Services. Just like in the show, I believe teamwork is key and when we work together, we can make a big impact. For staff, that means supporting each other and taking pride in our craft. For students, it means making every meal not just something to eat, but something they can truly enjoy and look forward to each day.”
Away from the kitchen, Nelson enjoys fishing, his favorite way to relax and recharge. And while he can successfully prepare meals for hundreds of students, he laughs at the fact that he still sometimes manages to burn frozen pizza at home, a reminder that even the most skilled cooks have their quirks.
Rochell Whitfield
East Cafeteria Manager
If Nelson brings new energy, Rochell brings a wealth of experience. With 27 years in food service, including the last three at SDoL, she has seen how much a good meal can mean to people, both physically and emotionally. As the cafeteria manager at East, Rochell runs the entire operation, ensuring students have access to nutritious food, welcoming spaces, and a team that puts care first.
“I love to interact with people of all walks of life. Over the years I have been able to meet and work with some amazing people. Plus, I love food, actually eating and knowing that the food served can help people in some kind of way with their overall health.”
Her leadership is rooted in relationships. Rochell’s cafeteria is a hub where students feel seen and cared for. She sees each meal as an opportunity to support student health, confidence, and readiness to learn.
Outside of work, Rochell’s time is just as full. She loves visiting her grandchildren and can often be found dancing, a passion that brings her joy and energy. If she’s not on the dance floor, she’s at home listening to old-school R&B or reading on her tablet. She’s also a fan of crime and drama series, often binge-watching Law & Order, Chicago PD, and the F.B.I. franchise.
Her fun fact? Rochell comes from a big family, 13 siblings, all raised under one roof. That background has shaped her love for connection and community. She also has a passion for skating and dancing, talents that many may not know about.
The heart of Food Service at SDoL
Both Rochell and Nelson represent the backbone of what it means to serve students beyond the classroom. They ensure that every student who walks through the doors at JP and East starts the day with access to breakfast and has a reliable lunch waiting for them midday.
Their dedication highlights that school meals are not just about food. They are about dignity, care, and the belief that when students are nourished, they are better prepared to focus, learn, and thrive. So the next time you see them, make sure you say hi!