Episode 02
Episode Summary
In this episode of Cafeteria Confessions, we visit Dr. John Ochsner Discovery Health Sciences Academy (DJOD) in New Orleans, Louisiana, to learn about their innovative approach to school nutrition. DJOD serves 750 students, aiming to provide a high-quality education that goes beyond academics. Their mission is to empower students to make healthy and sustainable choices for themselves and the environment.
A key focus at DJOD is nutrition education and fostering the power of student choice. From an early age, students are taught how to make informed, healthy food decisions—skills they can carry with them for life. The school also integrates hands-on culinary programs, starting in elementary school and continuing through high school. This practical approach not only deepens students' understanding of nutrition but also allows staff to observe how their meal choices evolve, often inspiring healthier habits at home.
The episode also celebrates the pride DJOD’s staff take in serving fresh, healthy meals. Their dedication to wellness demonstrates how prioritizing nutrition creates a thriving school community and supports student success both inside and outside the classroom.
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About the Guest
Dr. Glaser opens and grows schools! Creating schools to match community needs is her passion; especially schools that serve all kinds of learners. Dr. Glaser’s dynamic career includes more than 20 years of school leadership experience and 18 years as a speech language pathologist. Dr. Glaser, a proud native of New Orleans, earned a doctoral degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of New Orleans. Dr. Glaser is the Founding Head of School and CEO of Discovery Schools. Prior to serving Discovery, Dr. Glaser held leadership roles at Lusher Charter School and Holy Rosary Academy & High School. Dr. Glaser is the recipient of the Christopher Columbus Award for finding new solutions to community problems and also a member of the University of New Orleans College of Education & Human Performance Hall of Fame. Dr. Glaser is the recipient of the Bureau of Governmental Research Innovation Award for Excellence in Government Awards honoring extraordinary local and state government employees and private citizens in the New Orleans area.
Dr. Glaser’s doctoral work is in designing curriculum for charter schools. She has been the lead writer for 5 community charters from start-up to full approval. As Head of School at Discovery Schools, Dr. Glaser’s goal is to grow a charter school network with an expert faculty, a vibrant community, and enthusiastic students.
You can listen to Cafeteria Confessions: Serving Up Stories from Lunchrooms Nationwide on you favorite podcast platform (more platforms coming soon):
