A local DeKalb County middle school cafeteria has scored insufficiently on a health inspection, securing just a 63 out of 100 on February 27. The score, delivered by the Georgia Department of Public Health, is a fail by health standards and unveils several violations that pose a direct threat to food safety at Druid Hills Middle School, as reported by FOX 5 Atlanta.
Violations highlighted in the report include an employee who failed to wash their hands after bathroom usage and then proceeded to serve food, as well as numerous food items like milk, lasagna, and bean and cheese burritos stored at unsafe temperatures. Even more alarming were expired yogurts and a malfunctioning kitchen sink with a notable absence of a certified food manager, essential to maintaining health standards. The previous health scores of the cafeteria were 86 in October and a perfect 100 the past March, indicating a surprising dip in cleanliness and safety practices in a short span, according to the report issued by the health inspector.
Immediate efforts are being made to mitigate these hard-to-stomach issues. Principal Sheveeta Bonner indicated to parents in a letter obtained by BNN Breaking that "ensuring the well-being of our students and staff is of utmost importance to us, and we take this responsibility very seriously." The response includes comprehensive staff retraining and the installation of a temporary freezer while they await repair parts, showcasing the school's determination in righting these wrongs.
These immediate actions reflect the gravity with which the school and the DeKalb County School District are treating the situation. In a public display of accountability, they have committed to excellence in their school nutrition programs and have welcomed the community's support. While food safety in schools is no small potatoes, the swift response and transparency from Druid Hills Middle School highlights their commitment to the health of their students and staff, with the reinspection expected on or before March 12, as per the statement from the principal.
