Manor Independent School District’s Food and Nutrition Director, Ryan Cengel, has received national recognition for his work in school nutrition. Cengel was selected to join the Healthy Kids Collaborative at the Culinary Institute of America, a group of school nutrition leaders focused on advancing scratch cooking, strengthening local food systems, and improving culinary standards in K–12 schools.
This selection brings attention to the changes happening in Manor ISD cafeterias. The district’s teams are increasing fresh, scratch-made meal options, working with Texas farmers and local producers, engaging students through hands-on food education and farm-to-school programs, and serving meals that reflect cultural diversity.
Through this collaboration at the national level, Manor ISD aims to continue leading innovative approaches in student-centered dining. The district operates eight elementary schools, three middle schools, one PreK-8 campus, three high schools and one alternative learning campus across 15 campuses in Texas. It serves more than 10,000 students and provides dual language programs as well as career certifications and associate degree pathways. According to its official website, Manor ISD supports student achievement not only academically but also through arts programs and community involvement initiatives.
Cengel also earned another honor: he was chosen as Texas’ representative for the Future Leaders Program at the School Nutrition Association National Leadership Conference. This distinction is awarded annually to just one school nutrition director from Texas.
“I am deeply honored to be selected for these opportunities and to represent both Manor ISD and the state of Texas on a national stage,” Cengel said. “These recognitions are truly a reflection of the incredible work our Food and Nutrition Services team does every day to serve fresh, nutritious meals in creative ways that support student health and success. I am excited to collaborate with school nutrition leaders from across the country, share what we are accomplishing in Manor ISD, and continue learning new ways to strengthen the quality and impact of school meals for students everywhere.”
The conference gathers emerging leaders nationwide for advanced training sessions focused on planning for future improvements in school nutrition programs.
Manor ISD has been recognized as a District of Distinction in visual arts by the Texas Art Education Association. The district encourages positive community contributions through student-led initiatives while supporting college-level athletics with annual signing opportunities (source). Its mission includes providing equitable access to high-quality education supporting all aspects of student development.
