A Cody school district employee was recently recognized for providing exemplary service.

Park County School District 6 Food Service Director Gen Sheets was one of two classified employees in the state to receive the 2020 Wyoming Recognizing Inspirational School Employees (RISE) Award.

Sheets was honored by First Lady Jennie Gordon, who announced the winners in conjunction with Gov. Mark Gordon and the Wyoming Department of Education.

The other award winner was Dawndrea Daly, food service manager with Platte County School District 2 in Guernsey.

Sheets and Daly “are both true hunger heroes in Wyoming,” the first lady said. “I am inspired by their devotion and commitment to Wyoming families by ensuring that no child in Wyoming went hungry.”

Added Gov. Gordon, “It’s wonderful to provide long-overdue recognition to these individuals who serve our education community, helping ensure our teachers can educate and students can learn in a safe, supportive environment.”

State Superintendent Jillian Balow also offered congratulations to the two women.

“Both boldly led throughout school closures to make sure students received meals,” Balow said. “They are leaders in our schools and communities.”

Sheets’ superintendent, Peg Monteith, called her “a real leader with a wealth of knowledge.” Montieth said the food service director is a “true asset” and “extremely detail-oriented.”

“She [Sheets] is also that person that diligently researches the nutrition of any of the items we select to ensure they meet appropriate sodium, sugar and additional healthy guidelines,” Montieth said. “She really does go above and beyond for the kids.”

The RISE award was created by Congress in 2019 and is overseen by the U.S. Department of Education.