From Tradition to Table: How Inclusive School Menus Celebrate Culture and Community

  • Nov. 14, 2025

  • 1 minute

Headshot of Xzavier Wathogoma, a cook at Fountain Hills USD 98.

This Native American Heritage Month, Sodexo proudly spotlights Xzavier Wathogoma, a dedicated cook at Fountain Hills USD 98 and a proud member of the Fort McDowell Yavapai and San Carlos Apache tribes. Inspired by his grandmother and guided by deep cultural roots, Xzavier brings Native American culinary traditions to life in the cafeteria, serving authentic dishes like frybread.

 

For Xzavier, cooking is more than preparing food; it’s about creating a sense of belonging, comfort and pride among students who see their heritage reflected in every meal.

 

Read the full interview to learn more about Xzavier’s journey and discover how authentic, inclusive menus make a meaningful difference in school communities.  

Read the full interview

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