Gretchen Czaja

Teacher to grades 8–12, delivering diverse programs including, Middle School PE, Yoga & Mindfulness, and Personal Fitness & Wellness, and Health Education.

Designed and implemented curricula and assessment protocols tailored to meet diverse student needs and learning objectives.

Led student Advisory, fostering positive relationships, supporting personal development, and promoting overall well-being.

Current committees include Farm to School and Our Day of Work (ODW).

• Designed health curriculum aligned with national standards and student wellness goals.
• Instructed classes on nutrition, physical activity, substance prevention, sexual health and mental health.
• Assessed student learning through projects, and classroom discussions.

School Nutrition Program Director – Mountain Views Supervisory Union
Supervised daily operations of the School Nutrition Program across multiple schools, ensuring full compliance with federal and state guidelines, including NSLP and SBP standards.

• Supervised hiring, training, and evaluation of program staff; served as a substitute in kitchens to maintain seamless meal service.
• Monitored participation and financial data, identifying trends to inform program enhancements.
• Collaborated with school leadership, operations, HR, and sustainability teams to integrate food service objectives with district-wide initiatives.
• Collaborated with school leadership, operations, HR, and sustainability teams to align food service goals with district-wide initiatives.
• Designed monthly cycle menus featuring seasonal, locally sourced products.
• Supervised kitchen operations, overseeing equipment maintenance, procurement, and troubleshooting processes to ensure consistent meal service.

• Led the board as president from 2023 to 2024.
• Collaborated with executive board members to advance and support school nutrition professionals statewide through targeted education and effective advocacy.
• Worked with executive board members to assist in advancing and supporting school nutrition professionals statewide through education and advocacy.
• Developed 5-year board strategic plan.
• Expanded networking opportunities and enhanced knowledge and skills for school nutrition professionals across VT.
• Led the membership committee as chair from 2023 to 2024.

• Facilitated Nordic ski skill development for Grade 3rd/4th skiers, enhancing their technique and confidence on the snow.
• Led ski technique development for athletes across varied skill levels.
• Designed practice plans aligned with race preparation and season goals.
• Coached athletes on safety protocols, trail etiquette, and mountain awareness.

• Supervised all aspects of the K-8 youth Nordic ski program, which operated under Woodstock Ski Runners, a non-profit organization.
• Directed year-round training plans to improve endurance, technique, and race readiness.
• Evaluated athlete performance and adjusted workouts based on fitness, recovery, and goals.
• Led practices with clear instruction on pacing, form, and safe conditioning habits.

• Delivered individual and small group lessons to enhance skills of inn guests and Nordic Center customers.
• Assisted customers in retail and rental shop with trail information.
• Instructed guests in cross-country skiing techniques, adapting lessons to varied skill levels and goals.
• Conducted safety briefings and trail orientation to support confident, responsible participation.
• Assessed terrain and weather conditions to select appropriate routes and maintain lesson quality.

• Oversaw daily operations of Woodstock Elementary School nutrition program, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations to promote student health.
• Supervised one kitchen staff member to ensure efficient meal preparation.
• Taught student cooking classes.
• Incorporated health and local food educational opportunities into the school meal time.
• Provide leadership for the health education team.
• Facilitated educational support for school garden, enhancing students' understanding of nutrition and gardening.
• Integrated health and local food educational opportunities into school meal times, fostering awareness of healthy eating among students.
• Participated actively in district-wide Coordinated School Health Team meetings to enhance health programs.
• Contributed to the development of the initially adopted Wellness Policy to improve student health.

• Developed and delivered engaging, standards-based physical education lessons for grades K-6 to enhance student physical literacy and promote healthy lifestyles.
• Developed engaging physical education lessons aligned with age-appropriate fitness and motor skill standards.
• Instructed students in teamwork, sportsmanship, and safe participation during individual and group activities.
• Assessed student progress in coordination, endurance, and movement skills to guide instruction.

• Coached Grades 3-5 girls, fostering teamwork and confidence through national Girls on the Run curriculum.
• Led Girls on the Run practices using curriculum-based lessons and structured physical activity.
• Mentored assistant coaches to deliver consistent, supportive programming for participants.
• Coordinated weekly sessions, ensuring safe, organized, and engaging team environments.