Whitley County Consolidated Schools honors Gail Sheckler, a beloved cafeteria staff member at Columbia City High School, who is retiring after 29 years of dedicated service to students and staff.
Throughout her nearly three-decade career, Sheckler has been much more than a food service worker – she has been a constant source of warmth, support, and nourishment for thousands of students who passed through the school's cafeteria.
"Gail has been the heart of our cafeteria. She's not just served meals; she's served our students with compassion and care every single day. I did some quick math and if 60% of our kids ate school lunch that means Gail has helped prepare and serve 9,135,0000 lunches,” said Brady Mullett, CCHS Principal.
Colleagues describe Sheckler as a kind person who went beyond her job description. She consistently greeted students with a smile, offered kind words to those having a difficult day, and ensured every student felt welcomed and supported during their lunch period.
During her 29-year tenure, Sheckler witnessed significant changes in school nutrition, adapting to new dietary guidelines, technological improvements, and evolving student needs while maintaining her commitment to student well-being.
She started as a lunch substitute in 1995 before she hired full-time the following school year and she retires as the CCHS Food Service Manager.
"I have loved my job and kids but there are two people I’m going to miss the most. I’m going to miss seeing my grandkids in line. Thank you, all! We have the best school system. We have the best teachers and we have the best lunch ladies,” Sheckler said.
Gail’s grandson, Ben Strack, echoed he will miss her too!
“I have a ton of friends and I love being able to introduce my grandma to them. They have only good things to say about her. It’s been a joy to share my grandmother with all of you,” said Ben Strack, CCHS student.
Lisa Schnorr, WCCS Food Service Director, has worked with Gail for 27 years.
“When I first became director, I had to do lunch menus and it was Gail who helped me. I was serving kid size portions to the high school students and Gail was a true gem! She told me when I needed to serve more grains or a half-cup more of vegetables. I’m going to miss her and working with her so much,’ Schnorr said.
Gail’s daughter, Rhonda, also works for WCCS Food Service and said, “I’m excited for mom and I don’t think it will hit until I call over to the high school later this week. I remember mom serving me lunch when I was at CCHS! I’m grateful she will get to spend some time with all her grandkids and not have to set an alarm.”
Whitley County Consolidated Schools extends its deepest gratitude to Gail Sheckler for her years of dedicated service, kindness, and commitment to nurturing students.
Gail and her family at CCHS retirement reception for Gail.
# # #
About Whitley County Consolidated Schools
Whitley County Consolidated Schools (WCCS) is dedicated to providing a high-quality education that empowers all students to achieve their full potential. Serving Columbia City and surrounding communities, WCCS believes in fostering a learning environment that promotes academic excellence, personal growth, and character development. With a commitment to innovation and collaboration, our district offers a diverse curriculum, dedicated educators, and state-of-the-art facilities designed to inspire and engage every learner. Through partnerships with families and the community, WCCS strives to prepare students for success in a rapidly changing world. For more information about our schools, programs, and initiatives, visit us at [www.wccsonline.com](https://www.wccsonline.com).
Media Contact
Dr. Laura McDermott, WCCS Superintendent mcdermottla@wccsonline.com
Kennedy Saggars, WCCS Marketing Director saggarskt@wccsonline.com