GAINESVILLE, FL (352today.com) – A real-life superhero doesn’t wear a cape. They make a difference every day without expectation of anything in return.
On Monday, one such superhero received an honorary cape for her good deeds.
Students from 2nd and 4th grades filled the cafeteria at Lawton Chiles Elementary School for a special presentation.
Representatives from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, No Kid Hungry of Florida and the Dairy Council of Florida visited the school to announce a food service worker had been selected as one of five Florida School Lunch Heroes for 2024.
As soon as Angela Kelly’s name was read aloud, students erupted in cheers and applause.
“She knows every kid by name and they know her,” said principal Corey Tomlinson. “For her to be recognized shows her dedication and we’re so happy for her to get that recognition.”
The announcement was a surprise to Kelly who wiped tears from her face as Minh Do, a parent of two students explained why she nominated Kelly. Do’s two daughters who have severe allergies – one to peanuts and the youngest is allergic to peanuts and dairy which results in anaphylaxis and could cause them to stop breathing.
“Before grade school both had allergic episodes that required visits to the emergency room,” Do told the audience. She explained it was frightening for her to send them to school.
Do praised Kelly for making sure her children have access to allergy-safe foods that are similar to the meals and snacks other students receive, both during lunch and after school.
“She’s an angel from the Almighty as she assured me that my daughters were in good hands,” said Do. “I trust Ms. Angela more than some of my family members.”
She said Kelly even sends information home to the family about any allergy-safe foods that the girls have particularly enjoyed.
Do also said she’s had the opportunity to send her daughters to other schools but chose not to because of that care.
“She is our hero!” said Do.
“It’s an honor. I know there were many, many deserving people,” said Kelly. “Just knowing that a parent thought enough to do that means a lot.”
The school district says Kelly knows firsthand what it’s like to have a child with a severe food allergy.
“Her own son suffered his first serious allergic reaction when he was just 3 months old,” said the school district in a news release. “When she went back into the workforce, she chose school food service so she could help children with food allergies.:
In addition to the superhero cape, Kelly received a $2000 check.