Dontavius “Dontay” Taylor, central kitchen supervisor in Dallas ISD’s Food and Child Nutrition Services department, carries a rich legacy of feeding young minds and bodies.
A proud graduate of Seagoville High School, Taylor is the third generation of his family to work in school food services, a tradition rooted in love and community.
His family’s legacy in school nutrition dates back to the early 1970’s when his great aunts started working in school cafeterias.
“Seeing these ladies create something out of nothing always inspired me,” Taylor said. “They didn’t always have much, but they worked hard and put all their love into the food.”
His own journey with FCNS began in 2005, following the advice of his mother, Jeanne Norman, a Dallas ISD cafeteria manager herself, when he was looking for what to do after leaving college.
“My mother said, ‘You have so much talent, let’s not waste it,’” Taylor said. “And here I am now.”
Particularly during the holiday seasons, Taylor and the FCNS team exemplify their commitment to providing students with a special meal that nourishes students physically and emotionally.
Before Thanksgiving, all cafeterias in the district served a traditional meal featuring turkey, green bean casserole, salad, and mashed sweet potatoes.
“For many students, this may be their only chance to enjoy a holiday dinner. We want them to feel like home, like a real treat — full of nutrition, of course, but something that is also fulfilling,” he said. “You notice when you have special meals like this, there is excitement not only among the kids, but also their parents, who can join in with their students. It turns the school environment into a family environment.”
Taylor sees his role as more than just a job; it’s a calling rooted in service based on a simple yet powerful leadership philosophy: teach one, reach one.
“I am proud of helping everyone that works with me be better, because to lead, we must know how to serve,” he said. “From the time I step on the kitchen floor, it is my responsibility to ensure my staff, and I are prepared for the day.”
