HOUSTON – Dec. 21, 2017 – Child nutrition employees from across Spring ISD had an opportunity this month to showcase their creative talents in the district’s 22nd annual Gingerbread House competition that featured gumdrops, icing, gingerbread and even confectionary cows.
The bovine twist on a holiday tradition was part of an effort to showcase the nutritional contribution of the cow, which is an important part of many children’s diets through meat and dairy.
The end result was 38 delectable designs, including colorful barns, green pastures and wooden fences, mostly made out of edible materials.
“We just think this is a very important activity for our staff not only for a teambuilding and pulling them together, but it becomes something that they look forward every year,” said Shelly Copeland, child nutrition director. “It just makes this time of the year feel special.”
School teams competed against other, based on their level and size. The entries were displayed at the Child Nutrition and Training Center on Kuykendahl. The winning entries earned bragging rights and a sense of accomplishment.
“When working together, great art happens,” said Olga Lara, child nutrition manager. “We really enjoy cooking and sharing our creativity with our team.”
This year’s contest winners are:
- Clark Primary, small elementary school category and best use of the cow
- Beneke Elementary, medium elementary school category and best use of the cow
- Ponderosa Elementary, large elementary school category and best use of the cow
- Bammel Elementary, extra-large elementary school category
- Hoyland Elementary, extra-large elementary school best use of the cow
- Dueitt Middle School, middle school category
- Claughton Middle School, middle school best use of the cow
- Early College High School, high school category and best use of the cow
- The People’s Choice Award went to Beneke Elementary