News

Oct. 30, 2023

Food insecurity in US households with children rose to 17.3% in 2022, with child food insecurity specifically increasing from 6.2% in 2021 to 8.8% in 2022, according to research from the USDA. The uptick in food insecurity coincided with the scaling back of pandemic-era safety measures, like the child tax credit and universal school meals.

 Full Story: K-12 Dive (10/27) 

Oct. 30, 2023

Participation in the federal Afterschool Meal Program dropped by 23% between October 2021 and October 2022 -- the first decrease since the program began in 2010 -- according to a report by the Food Research & Action Center. Over 1.6 million low-income children missed after-school meals, resulting in $116.5 million in missed federal reimbursements, FRAC noted, advising that Congress lower area eligibility requirements, increase federal funding and streamline the program to boost access.

 Full Story: K-12 Dive (10/26) 

Oct. 28, 2023

Sen. Roger Marshall, R-KS, spearheaded an ultimately unsuccessful resolution to stop the implementation of a Biden administration policy to withhold school lunch funding from schools that reject pro-”trans” policies. “This administration is using school lunches to attack our youth to implement their ‘transgender’ policies,” Marshall said. "I would ask the White House to leave our kids alone.”  READ

Oct. 27, 2023

The number of Americans living in households dealing with food insecurity jumped from 33.8 million in 2021 to 44.2 million last year, while the percentage of households with very low food security rose from 3.8% to 5.1% during the period, according to a report from the Department of Agriculture's Economic Research Service. Food insecurity was more prevalent in rural areas than urban areas, and Black and Latino households were more likely to experience food insecurity.

 Full Story: The Hill (10/26),  The Washington Post (10/25) 

Oct. 28, 2023

Are you ready to take your career to new heights and join the ranks of esteemed SNS Credential holders? Don't miss the chance to further enhance your knowledge and skills in school nutrition management. Learn more about the SNS Credentialing Program and sign up for an upcoming exam in your area.

Oct. 27, 2023

With the hopes of increasing school meal participation, Florida's Miami-Dade County Public Schools is turning to the student taste-testers for its menu items. Roughly 50 students in the district tried several new recipes and provided feedback to the school nutrition staff via an online survey.

 Full Story: WLRN-TV/WLRN-FM (Miami) (10/26)  

Oct. 26, 2023

A growing number of communities are participating in the farm-to-school movement that connects local farms with school cafeterias, providing fresh food for students and economic support for regional agriculture. While federal funding of these programs from the USDA has increased in the past year, there is a significant need for more culinary training and cafeteria staff with the skills to prepare unprocessed food.

Full Story: National Public Radio (10/24) 

Oct. 26, 2023

Three senators are hoping to address food insecurity in children with the Healthy Meals Help Kids Learn Act, which will increase the federal reimbursements available to schools that provide breakfast and lunch. The hope is that the extra money given to schools can be used for more meals or to invest in higher-quality produce, kitchen equipment and school nutrition staffing.

Full Story: Las Cruces Sun-News (N.M.) (10/26) 

Oct. 24, 2023

Share your expertise in school nutrition and submit an education sessional proposal for SNA's Annual National Conference (#ANC24), taking place from July 14 to 16, 2024, in Boston, Mass. This premier event for K-12 school nutrition professionals serves as a launching pad for thought leaders like you to catalyze meaningful change. We're excited to see how your ideas will shape #ANC24! Submit your proposal by 11:59 p.m. ET on Nov. 6, 2023.

Oct. 24, 2023

SNA has continued to advocate for school meals at no cost for all students, as part of its 2023 Position Paper. In May of this year, Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) and Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) introduced the "Universal School Meals Program Act," providing breakfast, lunch, dinner and a snack to all students at no cost. The bill revives the success of meals at no cost provided during the COVID-19 pandemic. SNA has joined 18 allied organizations to form the Healthy School Meals for All Coalition and continue supporting these efforts. Learn more.

Sept. 29, 2023

Take a look back at the amazing time everyone had this past July at SNA's 2023 Annual National Conference (ANC) in Denver. Thanks to all that attended and "reached higher" through education sessions, exhibits, networking and of course plenty of fun, too. We invite you to join us in Boston for #ANC24! Mark your calendars now for July 14 to 16, 2024.

Sept. 27, 2023

The USDA has lowered the threshold for schools to qualify for free breakfast and lunch programs, making millions of additional students in low-income communities eligible. The federal government will now cover the cost of free meals for all enrolled students in schools where 25% of families participate in income-based public benefits -- down from the previous threshold of 40% -- benefiting approximately 3,000 additional school districts and more than 5 million students.

 Full Story: The Associated Press (9/26),  K-12 Dive (9/26) 

Sept. 26, 2023

A new school year comes with tons of new experiences and opportunities -- and not just for students! The September/October issue of School Nutrition explores the world of adult learning, and how you can (and should) commit to being a lifelong learner, with features including an overview of SNA's LEAD to Succeed™ initiative, training tips and tricks from several members of SNF's Cadre of Trainers, primers on adult learning principles and professional development opportunities and much more. Read SN's September/October 2023 issue.

Sept. 26, 2023

Two rural school districts in Alaska have been awarded federal grants of over $100,000 each by the USDA to improve student nutrition. The funds will be used to reduce sugar and sodium, increase locally sourced foods and support initiatives like hydroponic farming and school gardens.

 Full Story: KFSK-FM (Petersburg, Alaska) (9/24) 

Sept. 25, 2023

Three new CEUs await! The School Nutrition Foundation (SNF) has introduced a brand-new module in the LEAD to Succeed™ Leadership Growth series. With "Leading with Emotional, Conversational, and Cultural Intelligence in the Leadership Series" you can earn 3 new CEUs! LEAD to Succeed™ is high-quality, turnkey professional development training created specifically for school nutrition professionals, at no cost.

Sept. 22, 2023

Hawley Public Schools in Minnesota is grappling with lunch challenges, including food shortages, high demand for specific items and record participation, despite legislation providing universal school meal service. Superintendent Phil Jensen reported that the district is working to provide nutritious and satisfying meals amid these issues.

Full Story: KVLY-TV/KXJB-TV (Fargo/Grand Forks, N.D.) (9/22) 

Sept. 22, 2023

Are you ready to take your career to new heights and join the ranks of esteemed SNS Credential holders? Don't miss the chance to further enhance your knowledge and skills in school nutrition management. Learn more about the SNS Credentialing Program and sign up for an upcoming exam in your area.

Sept. 22, 2023

South Dakota State Rep. Kadyn Wittman is working on legislation to reduce the cost of school lunches for families in the state, following the rejection of previous legislation. South Dakota has approximately $6.3 million in school meal debt, and Wittman believes offering free school lunches can create a healthier community.

 Full Story: KELO-TV (Sioux Falls, S.D.) (9/21) 

Sept. 21, 2023

A survey by the EdWeek Research Center reveals that more than 90% of educators believe students require at least 30 minutes for lunch, yet over three-quarters of teachers claim their students have less time. Some states are exploring legislation to extend minimum lunch periods, aiming to promote better nutrition and overall student well-being.

 Full Story: Education Week (9/20) 

Sept. 21, 2023

St. Tammany Parish Public Schools officials are facing challenges providing free meals to all students due to rising food and labor costs, coupled with reduced federal pandemic relief funds. Despite offering free breakfast and lunch to all students through the Community Eligibility Provision, the reimbursements have not kept pace with increased meal costs.

 Full Story: The Times-Picayune | The New Orleans Advocate (9/19)  

Sept. 18, 2023

National School Lunch Week is almost here... Oct. 9 to 13! Have you crafted your master plan yet? Check out the newly dropped SNA-provided resources, including the official #NSLW23 Toolkit; Activity Guide & Coloring Sheets, #NSLW23 merchandise, infographics and more. Get ready to conquer #NSLW23 and make it an epic week!

Sept. 15, 2023

Fresh fall produce including pumpkin, apples, pomegranates, beets, kale, okra, Brussels sprouts, cranberries and sweet potatoes can offer lots of options for heart-healthy cooking and eating, say registered dietitians. Autumn vegetables and fruits are known for their high levels of fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that support cardiovascular health.

Full Story: Verywell Health (9/13) 

Sept. 15, 2023

Registered dietitian nutritionist Sara Haas offers a recipe that hits all the marks for a quick, budget-friendly, nutritious dish. Haas' Cheesy Sweet Potato Black Bean Casserole can be easily and quickly assembled with cost-effective pantry staples, is packed with plant-based nutrients and is a rich source of fiber and protein. It also is versatile, Haas says, "if you don't have one of the items listed, swap in something else or leave it out."

Full Story: EatingWell (9/12)  

Sept. 15, 2023

New York state has allocated $134 million to expand free school meals in an effort to provide breakfast and lunch at no cost to students in high-poverty schools. While this funding aims to alleviate financial burdens on families, advocates are calling for the establishment of a universal school meal program to ensure all students have access to meals at no cost.

 Full Story: Spectrum News/New York State (9/14) 

Sept. 14, 2023

The US Department of Education wants to bring Medicaid services into schools to help keep students healthy and will push for legislation that would allow schools to serve as health care centers. HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra said if students are going to learn, they need to be healthy.

 Full Story: KSDK-TV (St. Louis) (9/11) 

Sept. 14, 2023

Montgomery County Public Schools in Maryland is participating in federally funded programs like the National School Breakfast Program and National School Lunch Program to provide free or reduced-priced meals to students facing food insecurity. Eligibility is determined based on annual income requirements, and meals will be offered without discrimination based on various factors, ensuring access for all enrolled participants.

 Full Story: WUSA-TV (Washington, D.C.) (9/12) 

Sept. 11, 2023

As New Jersey students returned to classrooms this week, the number of them eligible for free or reduced school breakfast and lunch jumped — and hunger insecurity advocates are eyeing ways to make those meals free for all children.

“We are hopeful — since New Jersey has done so much and really led the way in addressing hunger and food insecurity — that in this next legislative session, they can get a school-meals-for-all bill passed,” said Lisa Pitz of Hunger Free New Jersey.

Sept. 11, 2023

The federal government's funding for free school meals during the coronavirus pandemic came to an end in 2022 after USDA waivers expired, leading to different responses from states. While most states reverted to their pre-pandemic school meal systems, some, like Michigan, continued to provide free meals for all students, recognizing the importance of addressing food insecurity among children.

 Full Story: PBS 

Sept. 11, 2023

A recent YouGov poll indicates that the majority of Americans believe public schools should offer free breakfast and lunch to all students, regardless of family income. The results show strong bipartisan support, with 60% of adults favoring free lunch for all students and 57% supporting free breakfast.

 Full Story: Chalkbeat 

Sept. 11, 2023

Several states have established permanent universal free school meal programs, ensuring that all students can access breakfast and lunch without charge with the intention of reducing child hunger, minimizing meal debt and creating a positive cafeteria environment. "Research has shown if kids are hungry, they're not going to be ready to learn," said Chris Derico, president of the School Nutrition Association and child nutrition director for West Virginia's Barbour County Schools.

 Full Story: CNN 

Sept. 7, 2023

Unpaid meal debt in school nutrition operations had reached a crisis point even before the rise of COVID-19. Start the new school year on a firm financial footing by reviewing your meal charge policy, stepping up collection of meal applications and other strategies suggested in "Managing the Problem of Meal Debt," a digital bonus article from School Nutrition magazine. Thanks to Basic American Foods for its generous support in making this article available.

September 5, 2023

Illinois, Mississippi, Oregon and Texas have passed legislation requiring students to learn about the dangers of opioids and fentanyl. These measures aim to address the increasing rates of youth overdoses, and experts say they expect more states will propose opioid education in schools as awareness grows about the risks associated with these drugs.

Full Story: K-12 Dive (9/1)  

September 1, 2023

Attention, SNA members! The highly anticipated 2023-24 Promotion Calendar is here, and it's a feast for your creativity. Packed with exciting monthlong, weeklong and single-day holidays and events, this calendar will make every day in your cafeteria a celebration! Sponsored by Conagra Foodservice and presented by School Nutrition magazine, it will transform your school's dining experience. Learn more.

September 1, 2023

The US Department of Agriculture has extended its produce grant program for another year, with awards to 139 Idaho elementary schools ranging from $8,475 to $35,625. The grants are part of the state's Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program which encourages healthier food choices among students, and the funding will provide fresh fruits and vegetables as afternoon snacks on Wednesdays and Thursdays to eligible schools.

Full Story: Bonner County Daily Bee (Sandpoint, Idaho) (9/1)

August 29, 2023

All students in Jefferson County Public Schools in Kentucky are now eligible for free breakfast and lunch, removing the stigma of receiving free meals and providing greater access to nutritious food. The program, available for four years, benefits families struggling financially and helps ensure students have access to healthy meals.

Full Story: WFPL-FM (Louisville, Ky.) (8/28)  

August 28, 2023

Thirty-one schools in Georgia's Fulton County School are now offering free breakfast and lunch to all students through the USDA's Community Eligibility Provision. Families at other schools in the district can apply online to check their eligibility for free or reduced-price meals based on income and other criteria.

 Full Story: Georgia Public Broadcasting (8/28)

August 28, 2023

Several US states -- Minnesota, New Mexico, Colorado, Vermont, Michigan and Massachusetts -- are joining California and Maine this school year in providing free school breakfasts and lunches to all students regardless of family income. The move aims to alleviate hunger among students and promote better learning outcomes, with advocates pushing for nationwide extension of the program as other states consider similar changes.

 Full Story: The Associated Press (8/26) 

August 28, 2023

Turn your podcast listening experience into a holistic wellness activity! Say hello to the power of walking while listening to SNA's podcast, "School Food for Thought," all while utilizing the STEPs app to track your progress! Don't forget about STEPs August challenges and finish the month strong with a meditation practice.

August 25, 2023

Check out SNA's Third Quarter State Legislative Report which provides a summary of key school nutrition state legislation that was introduced between Jan. 1 and July 30, 2023. Current trends include the expansion of school breakfast and lunch programs, provisions related to unpaid meal debt and efforts to reduce administrative burdens. Eight states have passed permanent healthy school meals for all legislation. Read the report.

August 24, 2023

Did you know that an estimated 13% of school-aged children in the US have one or more food allergies? Find the answers to common food allergy questions and much more on SNA's Food Allergy Resource Center, brought to you by the National Peanut Board. Learn more.

August 24, 2023

The USDA has implemented lower sodium limits in school meals for the 2023-2024 academic year with reductions ranging from 120 mg to 135 mg depending on grade level. School cafeterias are adapting by incorporating herbs, spices and healthier alternatives, aiming to encourage students to make healthier dietary choices from a young age, according to Kathleen Britton, the Utah State Board of Education's director of child nutrition.

Full Story: KSTU-TV (Salt Lake City) (8/23)

August 23, 2023

SNA is kicking off the 2023-24 membership year with the Membership Starts with ME campaign to celebrate our top recruiters. Show your support for school nutrition and get a chance to win great prizes. Recruiting at least one new member during any month through May 2024 automatically enters you to win one of our exciting prizes -- from a year of free membership to free training zone classes. Need some help recruiting? Check out the variety of membership campaign materials for a quick and easy way to explain the benefits of SNA membership to potential new members.

August 22, 2023

Earn SNA CEUs when you tune into episode two (and pass a short quiz linked with each episode), "Engaging the Whole World in the Cafeteria." You'll hear from E. Nichole Taylor, Chichester School District (Penn.), and Lindsay Aguilar, RD, SNS, Tucson Unified School District (Ariz.) as they discuss their experiences catering to diverse communities, supporting refugee families and creating a cafeteria environment that's welcoming to all students by serving foods that will remind some of home and invite others to partake in a global culinary adventure. SNA's podcast is available on Apple Podcasts as well as Spotify, Google Podcasts and SchoolNutrition.org.

August 21, 2023

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has signed a bipartisan education budget, providing $160 million to offer all 1.4 million public school students in the state free breakfast and lunch for one school year, aiming to eliminate meal stigma and address food insecurity. School districts and food pantries are welcoming the move, highlighting its positive impact on students' well-being and learning.

 Full Story: WXMI-TV (Grand Rapids, Mich.) (8/20) 

August 21, 2023

Efforts are underway in South Carolina to reinstate a federal program that provided free meals at public schools, with the Child Food and Nutrition Services Study Committee examining the benefits, costs and potential shift to a farm-to-lunch table approach. While considering potential costs and benefits, lawmakers are studying the feasibility of transitioning nutritional programs from the Department of Education to the Department of Agriculture, focusing on improving child well-being and addressing food insecurity.

 Full Story: WCIV-TV (Charleston, S.C.) (8/18) 

August 18, 2023

A balanced lunch with fruits, protein and fiber is crucial for students' focus and overall health, as unhealthy options can lead to mood swings and distraction, according to experts. Providing healthy snacks at home further supports students' energy levels and nourishment.

Full Story: KTVO-TV (Kirksville, Mo.) (8/17) 

August 23, 2023

Minnesota's universal school meals program ensures all students receive free breakfast and lunch without paperwork, with an option for additional assistance if parents apply. St. Cloud School District 742 offers reimbursable meals with specific components, while also forgiving lunch debt to ensure students' nutritional needs are met.

Full Story: KNSI-AM/FM (St. Cloud, Minn.) (8/18)

August 18, 2023

Younger workers who want their company's values to match theirs as well as a drive for more of a work-life balance means fewer employees are feeling loyal to their employer, and are more focused to their own ambitions, even if that means job-hopping, say workplace experts. "There is much less emphasis on staying loyal and 'sticking out' for a job and much more emphasis on finding a job that matches workers' own needs and preferences," says Aaron Taylor, head of school for human resource management at Arden University, UK.

Full Story: BBC (8/16)  

August 18, 2023

America is Made with School Lunch. To help you promote the incredible benefits and value of school meals, SNA and the National Dairy Council (NDC) have partnered for a new educational awareness campaign with plenty of resources and tools, including a brand-new video that debuted to acclaim at SNA's Annual National Conference in July. Don't miss the five downloadable posters available in both English and Spanish, ready to be printed and displayed in your cafeteria and school. Bookmark the webpage -- more videos and resources will be added in the coming months.

August 17, 2023

Look to the School Nutrition Foundation (SNF) for a wealth of resources from their years of work on the Partners for Breakfast in the Classroom (PBIC) project, including:
 

August 17, 2023

Pennsylvania has established the Universal Free Breakfast Program, allocating an additional $46.5 million in the state budget. The program ensures that all 1.7 million public school students in the state have access to free breakfast, leveling the playing field, addressing hunger barriers, and promoting better focus and performance in schools.

 Full Story: Trib Total Media (Tarentum, Pa.) (8/8)  

August 17, 2023

A recent study suggests aligning K-12 nutrition standards with the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans could lead to improved children's diets, lower blood pressure, reduced body mass index and potentially prevent thousands of deaths long term. However, logistical challenges related to food supply chains and labor shortages continue to pose difficulties for schools trying to implement stricter nutrition standards proposed by the USDA.

Full Story: K-12 Dive (8/15)  

August 16, 2023

The number of children who have lost Medicaid coverage since states resumed checking eligibility after COVID-19 administrative protections ended has exceeded 500,000, with 21 states documenting declines. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services is taking several steps as procedural complications have made it more difficult to maintain enrollment, such as suspending coverage denials in six states and directing resources toward outreach as children return to school.

 Full Story: Bloomberg Law 

August 16, 2023

Massachusetts has become the eighth state to enact a permanent universal school meals program, ensuring that all students, regardless of household income, will continue to receive breakfast and lunch at no charge. The move aims to address household food insecurity and remove barriers to learning caused by hunger, benefiting both students and families.

 Full Story: WBUR-FM (Boston) 

August 16, 2023

Round Rock Independent School District students are set to benefit from expanded free and reduced-price lunch program offerings, now including free breakfast for qualifying students. This program extension, initiated by the Texas legislature, will be in effect for two years, ensuring more students have access to nutritious meals based on eligibility criteria.

 Full Story: Community Impact Newspaper (Texas) (8/15) 

August 15, 2023

Join the "Made with School Lunch" movement! To champion the incredible benefits and value of school meals, SNA and the National Dairy Council (NDC) have collaborated on an educational awareness campaign, featuring a brand-new video that received rave reviews at SNA's recent Annual National Conference. Take advantage of the official social media kit, designed to inspire and inform educators, students, and the community about the positive outcomes facilitated by nutrient-rich school lunches.

August 14, 2023

More than 650 school nutrition professionals gathered at the Minnesota School Nutrition Association's 66th Annual Conference, coinciding with the recent implementation of the state's new law providing free school breakfast and lunch to all students. The event highlights strategies to enhance meal options, improve nutrition and create an ideal learning environment while addressing the state's $400-million investment in the initiative.

 Full Story: KARE-TV (Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minn.) (8/8),  WJON-AM (St. Cloud, Minn.) (8/9)  

August 12, 2023

Even schools that can offer free meals to all students are working to make cafeteria offerings more appealing to students. Efforts include using healthier ingredients, exploring plant-based options, offering eco-friendly packaging and addressing competition from off-campus eateries -- all with the goal of encouraging students to stay on campus and consume a nutritious meal.

 Full Story: National Public Radio (8/6) 

Aug. 8, 2023

The federal pandemic-era waivers that enabled universal school meal service have expired, but families in Georgia that qualify for reduced-price meals will not have to pay this school year due to a $6.3 million state grant. Georgia is also among 14 states that the USDA has authorized to use Medicaid data as a certification mechanism for free- and reduced-meal eligibility.

 Full Story: WSB-TV (Atlanta) (8/7) 

Aug. 8, 2023

Eligibility for free breakfast will be extended to more than 177,243 students in roughly 114 Connecticut districts this school year and around 13,197 more students in approximately 128 districts will have access to free lunch, according to Gov. Ned Lamont and Department of Education Commissioner Charlene Russell-Tucker. The state is using $16 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds to enable students that qualified for reduced-price meals to receive those meals for free.

 Full Story: The Connecticut Mirror (Hartford) (8/7),  WVIT-TV (West Hartford, Conn.) (8/7)  

Aug. 7, 2023

Colorado is one of 7 states offering Universal Jree Meals 
 All students in the Colorado Springs School District 11 will be eligible for free breakfast and lunch this school year. The universal meal service is available through the state's Healthy School Meals for All program.

 Full Story: KRDO-TV (Colorado Springs, Colo.) (8/4)  

August 5, 2023

"Get Smart About Scratch Cooking," from SN magazine, has top tips -- straight from a school chef -- for incorporating scratch-cooking into Smart Snacks-compliant menu items. Don't forget to also check out the SNA Recipe Library for new Smart Snack recipes (use the Cuisine drop-down to filter to Smart Snack recipes only).

August 4, 2023

Several states -- California, Colorado, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, New Mexico and Vermont -- have passed legislation to bring back free school meals for all students on a permanent basis after federal pandemic-era waivers expired. The move comes as the School Nutrition Association reports that many school districts have to raise meal prices due to inflation.

Full Story: CNBC (8/3) 

August 4, 2023

Massachusetts lawmakers passed a budget agreement, allocating $172 million to continue the pandemic-era program that offers free school meals to all K-12 students, ensuring access to essential nutrition and removing social stigma. Gov. Maura Healey is expected to sign the budget, freeing up funds for schools as they prepare to reopen in the upcoming weeks.

Full Story: Axios (8/1) 

August 1, 2023

The US is Made with School Lunch. To help you promote the incredible benefits and value of school meals, SNA and National Dairy Council (NDC) have partnered for a new educational awareness campaign with plenty of resources and tools, including a brand-new video that just debuted to acclaim at SNA's recent Annual National Conference. Don't miss the five downloadable posters available in both English and Spanish, ready to be printed and displayed in your cafeteria and school. Bookmark the webpage -- more videos and resources will be added in the coming months.

August 1, 2023

Wayzata High School in the Minneapolis suburbs turned to students to fill staffing gaps in the food services department, building on the success of previous student involvement in managing social media accounts. About 25 students were hired to work in the cafeteria, earning the same wage as adults and course credit while gaining valuable project management and interpersonal skills.

 Full Story: Education Week (7/28) 

August 1, 2023

High school and college students recently advocated in Washington, D.C., for more plant-based options in school meals. Students say they want more healthy options that reflect how they eat at home and also more environmentally-friendly options.

 Full Story: FoodNavigator (7/31)  

July 31, 2023

Make the 2023-24 school year the time when you grow personally and professionally by enhancing your leadership skills -- and you can start in August with free LEAD to Succeed™ training from the School Nutrition Foundation. Register now for two upcoming webinars ("Conflict Style Inventory" and "How Are Your Listening Habits?"). Each webinar will be held at 3 p.m. ET and 6 p.m. ET, so you can pick the session that works best for your schedule.

July 31, 2023

Public and charter schools in Colorado, including those in Colorado Springs, are preparing to implement the "Healthy School Meals for All" program. Passed as part of Proposition FF, the initiative will provide free nutritious meals to all participating students, aiming to promote equity, reduce stigma, and improve academic performance by ensuring students are well-fed throughout the school day.

 Full Story: The Gazette (Colorado Springs, Colo.) (tiered subscription model) (7/30) 

July 26, 2023

Hungry for the latest scoop on school nutrition? Look no further! "School Food for Thought," SNA's brand-new podcast, will keep you connected to a vibrant community of school nutrition superstars. This podcast will be your source of insights and knowledge about school nutrition, K-12 foodservice and the latest industry trends -- plus a way to earn CEUs! Start listening today on: Spotify, Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts (coming soon) or on the SNA website.

July 24, 2023

Bills introduced in the Pennsylvania General Assembly aim to establish a Universal School Meal Fund and provide free breakfasts and lunches for all public school students. While the effort gained momentum earlier this year, it now faces challenges as the governor's budget is dominating legislative conversations.

 Full Story: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (tiered subscription model) (7/22) 

July 24, 2023

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has officially signed into law legislation providing over $4 million to offer free, nutritious breakfast and lunch to all public school students in New Mexico. The universal meals program aims to alleviate financial burdens on families and ensure students are ready to learn without hunger as a barrier.

 Full Story: KOAT-TV (Albuquerque, N.M.) (7/24) 

July 20, 2023

Minnesota has joined five other states -- California, Maine, Colorado, New Mexico and Vermont -- in passing universal school meal legislation. The measure is part of a growing national movement to ensure all students have access to nutritious meals at school, aiming to improve student health, behavior, attendance and academic performance while ending lunch shaming and reducing the stigma associated with receiving free or reduced-price meals.

 Full Story: The 19th (7/18) 

July 20, 2023

"Connecting the Dots," a new SN Plus article, spotlights Austin Independent School District's innovative Cafe Manager Development Days program, a series of six day-long experiences for the district's 114 cafeteria site managers. If you're looking for new ways to develop staff, this digital bonus article from School Nutrition magazine might just provide you the inspiration to try something new. Read the latest SN Plus. School Nutrition thanks the California Dried Fruit Coalition for its generous support in making this article available.

July 20, 2023

Senator Roger Marshall is advocating to include whole milk in federal government programs, challenging nutritional guidelines that prioritize low-fat dairy. Marshall's efforts coincide with Congress' debate over the farm bill, with the aim to increase milk consumption and benefit dairy farmers, but faces opposition and funding challenges.

Full Story: The Kansas City Star (Mo.) (tiered subscription model) (7/19) 

July 20, 2023

The Wilson County Board of Education unanimously approved a plan to offer free breakfast and lunch to all students in North Carolina's Wilson County Schools, including those enrolled at the two early college high schools, using the USDA's Community Eligibility Provision. The move ensures that all students will have access to meals without charge, promoting inclusivity and eliminating the need for free or reduced lunch applications.

 Full Story: The Wilson Times (N.C.) (7/19) 

July 20, 2023

SNA's professional development department is continuing to look for new subject matter experts (SMEs) in a variety of topics. By being an SNA SME, you're supporting your fellow SNA members by offering your knowledge to help develop webinars, courses, trainings, magazine article topics, media inquiries and more. At the same time, you'll be helping SNA diversify our pool of SMEs so we can ensure we're being as inclusive as possible and effectively sharing the voices of our diverse membership. To see the full list of SME topics and apply, fill out this interest form.

July 20, 2023

The North Dakota state Senate voted to approve funding for free school meals for students whose families earn 200% or less than the federal poverty level. The measure initially did not pass but was later added to a larger education funding bill that was approved.

 Full Story: KFYR-TV/KQCD-TV/KUMV-TV/KMOT-TV (Bismarck, N.D.) (4/28)  

July 18, 2023

A new report from the Government Accountability Office reveals schools across the country experienced difficulties procuring food through the federal Food in Schools program, resulting in last-minute menu substitutions, repeated meals and delivery delays. The GAO report highlights the lack of a systematic mechanism within the USDA to identify and address issues, potentially compromising the program's objective of providing nutritious meals to students.

 Full Story: Education Week (7/17) 

July 17, 2024

The absence of whole milk from school cafeterias is attributed to a 2010 National School Lunch Program revision that banned whole milk to reduce childhood obesity. Lobbyists for the milk industry are now advocating for its return, supported by a bipartisan House effort and studies questioning the negative health effects of whole milk.

 Full Story: KFF Health News (7/13) 

July 14, 2023

Leah Carper, a high-school English teacher and the 2022 North Carolina Teacher of the Year, advocates for federally funded free school meals for all students to eliminate stigma and ensure food security. As the state considers school meals in its upcoming budget, Carper recalls her personal experience of receiving reduced-price lunch and the humiliation she felt when her classmates discovered her financial situation.

Full Story: WUNC-FM (Chapel Hill, N.C.) (7/13)  

July 14, 2023

School nutrition directors from across Colorado attended the School Nutrition Association's national conference in search of new recipes, portable equipment, and shelf-ready milk to accommodate the district's increased meal demand. With the launch of the state's Healthy School Meals for All program, many Colorado districts are expecting to serve meals to more students, and they aim to change the perception of school lunch and provide nourishing options that appeal to students.

 Full Story: Colorado Public Radio

July 6, 2023

Michigan public schools will offer free breakfast and lunch to all students starting this fall, making it the fifth state in the US to implement a universal meals program. The initiative, called "Healthy School Meals for All," aims to address food insecurity and improve student concentration and performance, with advocates highlighting the elimination of stigma associated with receiving free and reduced lunch.

Mich. implements "Healthy School Meals for All" 

July 6, 2023

A new state law in Minnesota provides free school breakfast and lunch for all students, making permanent the universal meal service that was enabled via federal waivers during the coronavirus pandemic. The program, beginning in the fall, will be funded by the state and federal government and aims to alleviate food insecurity and ensure proper nutrition for students, with Minnesota joining a few other states in taking this step.