AISD.TV is nominated for a Lone Star Regional Emmy Award for the second time in three years.
AISD.TV snagged their nomination for their video Source to School: Inside AISD Food Services, a behind-the-scenes look at Austin ISD's award-winning food service program. The video features the farmers, ranchers, bakers, food service workers and others who help make student lunches.
Making the video wasn’t always a sure thing. Tiffany Saunders, assistant media services coordinator, said as the pandemic progressed, It was difficult for AISD.TV to film anything in person.
"This was one of the few opportunities we had during the Covid year to produce content that was in-person and not a virtual or Zoom recording," she said. “Our team was diligent in reaching out to the district's food vendors, lining up interviews, and gathering behind-the-scenes footage. You can truly see the process of farm-to-table come to life in this production and see just how much AISD cares about providing healthy meals to our students.
TV Production Specialist Robert Longoria took to the road, spending hours in Central Texas filming and interviewing different food partners for the video.
"Over the course of about three weeks, I visited five food partners that create the delicious food AISD students and staff enjoy," Longoria said. "My filming adventure took me as far as a cattle ranch in Yoakum, TX, as well as farms in Bastrop and the far eastern outskirts of Austin. I also spent time filming our AISD food services staff in action, cooking and serving quality meals for students."
Austin ISD's Food Services has been recognized for menus that exceed the federal nutrition guidelines by featuring a variety of fresh produce, salad bars, and plant-based options daily. Menus include chef-prepared recipes using locally grown, sustainably raised ingredients.
"With this regional nomination, our sustainable programs will get more exposure and support, leading to more funding for these programs for all students," Longoria said.
Saunders said this nomination is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of her team.
"Earning a Lone Star Emmy nomination is a testament to the value Austin ISD puts into our television team and recognizes the countless hours and commitment our team has to tell the stories of AISD," Saunders said. "It is an integral resource for the community to not only help understand our district's mission but to see the great work of the people involved in public education in Austin."
Saunders also recognized Jerah Collaros, Glenda Esquivel, Landry Gideon, Lauren Groves, Daniel Hedges, Chad Kappeler, and DJ Ottis.
The virtual award ceremony for the Lone Star Regional Emmys will be Saturday, November 20th.
For the complete list of nominees, please visit www.lonestaremmy.org.