Staff Shoutout – Nilsa Torres, Burrowes ES

For more than two decades, Nilsa Torres has been a steady, caring presence at Burrowes Elementary School, ensuring that every student is greeted with not just a meal, but also a smile, a kind word, and a sense of belonging. As a Food Team Leader, her role extends far beyond preparing meals—she is a source of comfort and encouragement for students who may need a little extra warmth in their day.

Nilsa’s journey to SDoL wasn’t something she planned—it was something that found her. Originally from New York, she had every intention of moving to Allentown, but a last-minute housing issue redirected her to Lancaster. With all her belongings already packed, she took a leap of faith and settled here, unknowingly stepping into a community that would become like family.

Her connection to Burrowes began with her own children. When one of them struggled with the transition to a new school environment, she showed up, every single day, determined to provide the support he needed. Over time, her presence grew into something more, as she became a fixture in the school, volunteering for five years simply because she loved being around the students. When a colleague encouraged her to apply for a permanent role, she took another leap, turning what started as an act of love into a lifelong commitment.

Now, nearly 22 years later, Nilsa remains dedicated to the students of Burrowes. She ensures that meals are ready when they arrive, but more importantly, she makes sure they feel seen and valued. Mornings can be hard for kids, some arrive tired, hungry, or carrying the weight of things no child should have to worry about. But Nilsa believes in the power of a smile, a joke, or a small moment of kindness to turn their day around. It’s these little moments, she says, that make her job so rewarding.

Her heart for children extends beyond the cafeteria. She considers all Burrowes students her own, and one of the moments that has stayed with her was when a former student, whom she had known since kindergarten, personally invited her to his McCaskey graduation. It was a reminder of the impact she has had, not just in feeding students, but in making them feel cared for.

Outside of work, Nilsa is passionate about cooking, baking, and traveling, especially to tropical destinations. She also has big dreams of continuing her education and one day opening her own childcare business. Her personal goal this year has been to find more balance, to stress less, and to take things one step at a time, something she encourages others to do as well.

Her advice? “The beginning is always hard, but if you take it one day at a time, things do get better. There will be tough days, but with a little extra push, you’ll find your way.”

Nilsa, your dedication, kindness, and love for the students of Burrowes shine through in everything you do. You are more than a food service leader. You are a role model and a reminder that small acts of kindness can make all the difference. Thank you for being the heart of Burrowes and for making every student feel like they belong.

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