With 20 years of military experience, Demarcos Blow brings his logistics expertise and mission-driven purpose to Virginia Beach City Public Schools’ food services team.
A Mission That Continues
Demarcos Blow is new to Virginia Beach City Public Schools (VBCPS), but not new to service. After 20 years in the U.S. Navy, working in food service and hospital settings, he was looking for a way to continue making a difference.
“This transition allowed me to apply my experience on a large scale to support student health and well-being,” Blow says.
VBCPS offered an opportunity to continue his mission — this time, nourishing the community’s youngest members.
A Daily Impact Through Food and Service
Every day, Blow, a VBCPS food services coordinator, uses his logistics expertise to keep school meals on track. He checks that cafeterias are fully staffed, solves last-minute issues, coordinates with vendors, and manages inventory. When unexpected challenges arise, like food deliveries that don’t arrive on time, he adapts quickly to make sure students still receive a nutritious meal.
“It’s the same concept as when I was in the service — make sure staffing is right, supplies are in place, and the mission continues,” he explains.
When inclement weather and other emergencies disrupt school schedules, staff from the Office of Food Services ensure students have access to nutritious meals. This past February, staff prepared take-home meal kits for families ahead of the winter weather closures. Blow looks forward to playing an essential role in these operations and ensuring that students have what they need to thrive, no matter what the conditions are.
Inspired by Innovation
What excites Blow most about his new role is seeing how VBCPS connects food, learning, and sustainability. He points to site-based programs like plant-to-table gardens, composting, and water conservation initiatives as powerful examples of how schools can build community while teaching students about nutrition and their environment.
“It’s great to see students understand the full process — how food goes from plant to the table,” he says.
Learn about a great sustainability project at Arrowhead Elementary in the Nicole’s EdVentures episode, “Sustainability While Building Community,” available on the VBSchools YouTube Channel.
A Team That Feels Like Family
Blow says that one of the most rewarding parts of joining VBCPS is the strong sense of teamwork and support.
“They’re not just my bosses — they’re leaders. They walk through the mud with us,” he shares.
He describes a workplace culture where colleagues look out for one another, making even new team members feel like part of the family.
His advice to anyone considering joining VBCPS: “If you’re passionate about serving others and want to be part of something meaningful, this is a place to grow and thrive. Your work here truly matters each and every day.”
Are you looking for a career that offers growth, purpose, and the chance to make a daily impact?
VBCPS offers opportunities to shape futures—and grow yours.
Explore openings, meet our team, and apply today at www.vbschools.com/careers.