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La. legislation targets ultra-processed school lunches

April 11, 2025

Louisiana lawmakers are considering two bills to ban ultra-processed foods in school lunches. The first would prohibit serving and selling such foods in public schools, and the second would extend the ban to any school receiving public funds, require new food labeling, ban soft drink purchases with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits and require nutrition education.
Full Story: Axios (4/10) 
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Check out SN's annual food issue!

April 11, 2025

The March/April edition of School Nutrition magazine dives into how school meals foster community, connection and cultural appreciation. Additionally, this issue gives you a better understanding of how significant school lunch is and how you can welcome more students in with that sense of significance. Read the March/April 2025 issue to discover all of the articles to inspire, inform and instruct K-12 foodservice.
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Mich. schools face cuts to farm-to-lunch efforts

April 9, 2025

Michigan's farm-to-school movement aims to bring local produce like apples, potatoes and cherries to school cafeterias, but recent cuts to US Department of Agriculture grants are challenging these efforts. Programs like Michigan's 10 Cents a Meal are providing some relief, but there are concerns about potential future reductions in school lunch funding.
Full Story: Detroit Free Press (4/7)  More +

S.C. schools brace for changes in federal meal programs

April 9, 2025

South Carolina schools are preparing for significant changes in meal programs as the US Department of Agriculture ends the Local Foods for Schools program and considers raising the threshold for the Community Eligibility Provision. The latter change could drastically reduce access to free and reduced-price lunches, affecting hundreds of thousands of students.
?Full Story: WLTX-TV (Columbia, S.C.) (4/8)  More +

Efforts to ban fluoride in water are gaining traction

April 9, 2025

Utah made headlines when it became the first state to ban fluoride in public drinking water last month, and it appears that other localities and states may soon follow suit. Commissioners in Miami-Dade County, Fla., voted 8-2 on Tuesday to end fluoride additions, and a state lawmaker in Ohio is seeking approval for a similar bill. Some health officials like Florida's surgeon general have cited potential health risks associated with community water fluoridation, while others argue it is safe and offers dental health benefits.
Full Story: ABC News (4/2)  More +

To effectively manage others, start by managing yourself

April 9, 2025

Developing self-management skills, including using your time wisely, setting clear goals, being adaptable, regulating your emotions and holding yourself accountable, can help you excel at work and home, says Alexis Mobley, an executive coach and CEO of I, Matter! Coaching & Consulting. Begin by evaluating your current routines, habits and reactions to build awareness of where you may be struggling, then make small changes to build better habits, Mobley recommends.
Full Story: The Muse (4/4)  More +

Announcing the NSBW26 theme

April 9, 2025

Hear ye, hear ye! We are excited to officially announce the theme for 2026 National School Breakfast Week (NSBW26)--"The Quest for School Breakfast." Whether it's classic storybooks, blockbuster films or the latest fantasy series, fairy tales are timeless! The NSBW26 theme encourages curiosity, creativity, and engagement, reminding students that every great adventure starts with a strong beginning…and a nutritious breakfast! Learn more and get ready to celebrate. Let the quest begin!
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Texas students draft bill to address food deserts

April 8, 2025

Students at Harmony Science Academy in Texas have drafted a bill to combat food deserts that has been filed by state Sen. José Menéndez. The bill, which proposes offering tax incentives for landowners to open grocery stores in underserved areas, began as a research project by the school's student-run Service Leadership Society, under the guidance of social studies teacher Emmanuel Zakariya.
Full Story: WFAA-TV (Dallas-Fort Worth) (4/7) 
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Sucralose may boost hunger, lead to overeating

April 8, 2025

Research involving 75 young adults suggests that sucralose, a noncaloric sweetener, may increase hunger signals in the brain, potentially leading to overeating. The study, published in Nature Metabolism, found that sucralose heightened blood flow in the hypothalamus, a region associated with hunger, compared with sugar and water. Full Story: Medical News Today (4/5)

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Protect School Meals

April 8, 2025

Congress has proposed concerning changes to school meal programs that would reduce access to school meals, increase unpaid school meal debt and increase administrative costs and paperwork for schools. Learn more about the impact of these proposals and let your voice be heard—send a letter, make a call and meet with your legislators!
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Utah law bans certain additives in school meals

April 8, 2025

A new Utah law will ban certain additives such as potassium bromate and various food colorings from school meals starting May 7. School Nutrition Association of Utah President Candace Parr says the law will pose challenges for vendors and notes exceptions for parental provision and vending machines.
Full Story: KSTU-TV (Salt Lake City) (4/7)
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Mich. schools face cuts to farm-to-lunch efforts

April 8, 2025

Michigan's farm-to-school movement aims to bring local produce like apples, potatoes and cherries to school cafeterias, but recent cuts to US Department of Agriculture grants are challenging these efforts. Programs like Michigan's 10 Cents a Meal are providing some relief, but there are concerns about potential future reductions in school lunch funding.
Full Story: Detroit Free Press (4/7) 
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Bill would expand milk options in schools

April 3, 2025

Lawmakers in the US House and Senate have reintroduced bipartisan legislation to allow whole and 2% milk in school meals, which would reverse a 2012 ban tied to nutrition standards. Supporters say the change would improve children's health and dairy intake, while some groups remain opposed.
Full Story: The Associated Press (4/1),  The Hill (4/2),  FarmWeek (4/2) 
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Minn. bill proposes limiting free school meal eligibility

April 3, 2025

Minnesota state Rep. Andrew Myers has introduced a bill to limit free school meals to families earning below 500% of the federal poverty level, citing the need to redirect funds to schools. The proposal has drawn mixed reactions, with some education officials voicing concerns about potential funding decreases and the impact on students' ability to learn.
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SN Plus: Breakfast in the Classroom Buy-in

April 3, 2025

In the latest SN Plus digital article, "Breakfast Buy-in," we highlight a recent study from the Journal of Child Nutrition & Management that identified how future elementary school teachers initially felt about Breakfast in the Classroom (BIC) and how a simple, five-minute educational video changed their perceptions of the program in a positive way, helping them see the value of BIC and feel more confident about implementing it in their own future classrooms. Thanks to Land O'Lakes Foodservice for its generous support in making this article available.
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Colo. school meal program faces funding challenge

April 3, 2025

Colorado's universal free school meals program might face significant cutbacks next year unless voters approve additional funding. A proposed bill aims to address this by sending two referendums to voters in November to retain more tax revenue and to change the tax structure on incomes over $300,000.
Full Story: Chalkbeat/Colorado (3/31) 
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Are bananas a healthful daily choice? RD weighs in

April 3, 2025

Bananas are a nutritious fruit, offering benefits such as potassium, fiber and essential vitamins, including vitamin C and vitamin B6 and electrolytes, making them a good daily dietary choice according to registered dietitian Lauren Manaker. However, they may not suit everyone, particularly those on low-potassium diets or with elevated blood sugar concerns. Manaker says that eating a banana daily is generally safe, but it's best to include a variety of fruits in one's diet to ensure balanced nutrition. "While eating a banana every day isn't bad for many people, it may be more beneficial to eat different fruits, with bananas sprinkled into the rotation," she says.
 Full Story: Women's Health (3/27) 
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SNA Webinar Series: Best of SNIC25

April 2, 2025

Whether you couldn't attend SNA's School Nutrition Industry Conference (SNIC25) earlier this year or you simply want to revisit the most valuable education sessions, the Best of SNIC25 Webinar Series brings top-rated presentations directly to you. Register now for That's Lunch--Where Business and Feeding Kids Meet (April 2 @ 3:00 pm ET) and Soul of the School--How Lunchrooms Connect with Economically Challenged Kids & Families (April 9 @ 3:00 pm ET). Thank you to LINQ for supporting the series.
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Celebrate School Lunch Heroes on May 2!

April 2, 2025

Get ready to honor the dedicated school nutrition professionals who fuel students' success every day! School Lunch Hero Day is Friday, May 2, and it's the perfect time to show appreciation for the hard work and big hearts that go into every meal. The SNA Shop is fully stocked with official merchandise, gift ideas and all your celebration needs. Order early to ensure your items arrive in time and stay tuned--more celebration resources are on the way!


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Healthy School Meals for All

March 31, 2025

Lawmakers Could Tighten Eligibility Guidelines for Free and Reduced School Meals, WUSF (Tampa Bay, FL), March 25, 2025 
Federal lawmakers are considering proposed cuts to school meals, including the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP), a program allowing high-need schools to offer free meals to all students at no charge. In Florida, an estimated 1 million children could lose access to free meals at over 1,000 schools if the proposed cuts are enacted. “Taking away this important and effective way for local schools to offer breakfast and lunch at no charge to all of their students would increase hunger in the classroom, reintroduce unnecessary paperwork for families and schools, increase school meal debt, and bring stigma back into the cafeteria,” according to FRAC and the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities.  
Utah Ends Reduced-Price School Meals for Kids, Making Them Free Instead. Here’s Who Is Eligible, The Salt Lake Tribune, March 26, 2025 
Utah Gov. Spencer Cox has signed a bill, HB100, eliminating reduced-price school lunches for some students. Instead, an additional 40,000 students in kindergarten through sixth grade who currently receive reduced-price meals will now receive school meals for free beginning on July 1. HB100 also prevents schools from employing cafeteria practices that stigmatize students who receive free or reduced-price school meals. 
Millions of NY Kids Could Lose Access to Free School Meals. Here’s Why, The Journal News, March 24, 2025 
Proposed cuts to CEP could affect over 12 million children across the country, including 2.3 million in New York. “CEP is a win for students, families, and schools,” FRAC and the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities write. “CEP gives all students access to the nutritious school breakfasts and lunches they need to be well-nourished and ready to learn, while reducing the stigma often present in school cafeterias when schools have to track students’ eligibility for free, reduced price, and paid meals. When students have access to free meals at school, families have lower grocery bills and more money in their household budgets to help make ends meet.”  
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Farm to School cuts impact Minn. producers

March 26, 2025

The US Department of Agriculture's decision to end funding for the Farm to School program has significantly impacted Minnesota producers, including Pastures A Plenty Farm, which had planned to supply local schools. Sen. Tina Smith, D-Minn., met with affected farmers to discuss the economic ripple effects, emphasizing the importance of local food for nutrition and education.
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SNA Webinar Series: Best of SNIC25

March 26, 2025

Whether you couldn't attend SNA's School Nutrition Industry Conference (SNIC25) earlier this year or you simply want to revisit the most valuable education sessions, the Best of SNIC25 Webinar Series brings top-rated presentations directly to you. Register now for That's Lunch--Where Business and Feeding Kids Meet (April 2 @ 3:00 pm ET) and Soul of the School--How Lunchrooms Connect with Economically Challenged Kids & Families (April 9 @ 3:00 pm ET). Thank you to LINQ for supporting the series.
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Don't miss the March 28 deadline: SNF Scholarship to ANC25!

March 24, 2025

The School Nutrition Foundation (SNF) is awarding 45 scholarships to SNA members to attend SNA's 2025 Annual National Conference (ANC25) in San Antonio, Texas--a chance to gain valuable insights, network and grow in the school nutrition field! Visit the scholarship webpage to review eligibility and complete applications before the March 28 deadline.
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Mont. bill aims to expand access to free school meals

March 24, 2025

Montana House Bill 551 aims to provide free breakfast and lunch to students who qualify for reduced-price meals. Supporters highlight the bill's potential to address food insecurity amid rising grocery prices, noting that 45% of Montana public-school students were eligible for free or reduced-price meals in the 2023-24 school year.
Full Story: The Missoula Current (Mont.) (3/21) 
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W.Va. bill would ban food dyes in student meals

March 21, 2025

Legislation in West Virginia would ban synthetic food dyes in public school meals starting Aug. 1, with a potential statewide ban by 2028. The bill, awaiting the governor's signature, would prohibit Red Dye No. 3, Red Dye No. 40, Yellow Dye No. 5, Yellow Dye No. 6, Blue Dye No. 1, Blue Dye No. 2 and Green Dye No. 3.
Full Story: MedPage Today (free registration) (3/19) 
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Effort aims to bring whole milk back to schools

March 21, 2025

Pennsylvania dairy farmers are supporting the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025, which was introduced in the House of Representatives, to return whole milk to schools. Farmers say the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010, which removed whole milk from school lunch programs, has hurt milk consumption and children's nutrition.
Full Story: WPMT-TV (York, Pa.) (3/18) 
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Check out SN's annual food issue!

March 19, 2025

The March/April edition of School Nutrition magazine dives into how school meals foster community, connection and cultural appreciation. Additionally, this issue gives you a better understanding of how significant school lunch is and how you can welcome more students in with that sense of significance. Read the March/April 2025 issue to discover all of the articles to inspire, inform and instruct K-12 foodservice.
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RDs: Reducing sugar intake offers healthful benefits

March 19, 2025

Reducing or eliminating added sugars can lead to healthful benefits such as improved mood and energy levels, reduced inflammation and cavities, and a lower risk of chronic diseases, registered dietitians Jennifer Nicole Bianchini and Connie Elick say. "Added sugars are considered 'empty calories,' meaning they have no nutrient value but have plenty of calories," Elick says. "Therefore, when you cut out added sugars, you will be cutting down on calories that serve no nutritional value and may experience weight loss."
Full Story: Parade (3/12) 
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Celebrate School Lunch Heroes on May 2!

March 18, 2025

Get ready to honor the dedicated school nutrition professionals who fuel students' success every day! School Lunch Hero Day is Friday, May 2, and it's the perfect time to show appreciation for the hard work and big hearts that go into every meal. The SNA Shop is fully stocked with official merchandise, gift ideas and all your celebration needs. Order early to ensure your items arrive in time and stay tuned--more celebration resources are on the way!
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Boost participation with SNA's Promotion Calendar

March 12, 2025

Have you checked out SNA's Promo Calendar? It's filled with month-long, week-long and single-day holidays and events to help you brighten your school meal program and boost participation, too. Download the Calendar and get ready for a school year filled with amazing cafeteria celebrations!
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Colorado bill aims to boost funding for free school meals

March 12, 2025

Colorado lawmakers are considering a bill to increase funding for the Healthy School Meals For All program after the original funding fell short by $50 million. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Lorena Garcia and Sen. Dafna Michaelson Jenet, proposes two ballot measures to raise more revenue by adjusting income tax deductions for high earners. In its first year, the program provided over 100 million meals, highlighting its importance for student health and education.
Full Story: Colorado Newsline (Denver) (3/7) 
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Proposed US budget cuts could affect school meals

March 12, 2025

The US House Ways and Means Committee has proposed a $12 billion cut to school nutrition programs over the next decade as part of a broader effort to reduce federal spending by $330 billion. The School Nutrition Association and nutrition directors, such as Brenton Lexvold of Zumbrota-Mazeppa Schools in Minnesota, have voiced concerns that the cuts would severely affect budgets, especially in high-poverty areas that rely on the Community Eligibility Provision.
Full Story: KTTC-TV (Rochester, Minn.) (3/6) 
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Fla. Senate bill proposes free meals for all students

March 11, 2025

Florida state Sen. Lori Berman has introduced a bill to provide free breakfast and lunch to all public school students. The bill would rely mostly on federal funding, with a small supplement from the state's Department of Agriculture.
Full Story: Spectrum (3/10) 
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The small but mighty blueberry

March 11, 2025

Registered dietitian nutritionists Amy Globlirsch, Sheri Gaw and Allison Knott and RDs Mandy Tyler and Ali Ellis discuss the healthful benefits that blueberries offer, including the potential to reduce the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular issues due to their high anthocyanin content and anti-inflammatory properties. Blueberries are also a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in gut health and weight management, and may play a role in supporting heart and cognitive health, as well as immune function.
Full Story: EatingWell (3/5) 
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The SNS exam is moving online!

March 11, 2025

This Fall, the School Nutrition Specialist (SNS) credentialing exam is moving online and will be available at a network of testing centers across the U.S. The last paper-based exams will be held in July 2025. Throughout the exam format changes, SNA's Certificate and Credentialing Governing Council are ensuing the integrity, reliability and security of the SNS credential are maintained. More information and details about the new exam format including exam fees, policy updates and how to register for the exam will be shared in the coming months.
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N.D. Coalition: Our state needs free meals for all students

March 10, 2025

More than 80 members of North Dakota's Together for School Meals Coalition joined in a statement expressing disappointment regarding the defeat of House Bill 1475, which would have authorized free school meals for all students in the state. Coalition members said the bill would have provided financial relief to families already struggling, reduced stigma experienced by students who have school meal debt, eased stress on school nutrition staff managing unpaid fees and contributed to the state's overall health goals.
Full Story: North Dakota Monitor (3/10) 
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SN Plus: Ready to speak up for school meals?

March 4, 2025

In a new SN Plus article, "Ready to Speak Up for School Meals?," we dive into five things you should keep in mind when advocating for school nutrition programs, whether you'll be joining us later this week at SNA's Legislative Action Conference (March 9-11) or working on making change at the local level back home. Learn why advocacy works and how you can make a difference no matter what level of political knowledge or prior advocacy experience you have. Thanks to Conagra Foodservice for its generous support in making this article available.
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Utah bill aims to provide free lunches for more students

March 5, 2025

Utah's House Bill 100, sponsored by Rep. Tyler Clancy, aims to provide free school lunches to K-12 students currently receiving reduced-price meals, addressing food insecurity that affects one in six children in the state. The bill, which unanimously passed the Senate Education Committee, also seeks to protect students from embarrassment and reduce food waste by encouraging longer lunch periods and shared tables.
Full Story: Deseret News (Salt Lake City) (3/3) 
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Ohio coalition seeks $300M for universal free school meals

March 5, 2025

Hunger-Free Schools Ohio, a coalition including the Ohio Children's Hospital Association and Kroger, is urging the Ohio General Assembly to allocate $300 million annually for universal free school meals in the state budget. The request comes amid tighter state finances and a proposed $103 million cut to schools.
Full Story: Cleveland online (3/4) 
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What's top of mind for food safety professionals in 2025?

March 5, 2025

According to a poll conducted by Food Safety Magazine, in 2025, food processors will prioritize improving sanitation and environmental monitoring to enhance pathogen control. Emphasis will also be placed on strengthening food safety culture and traceability, with compliance to FSMA 204 and supply chain control being key focus areas. Processors also express a desire for better communication and understanding from regulators, particularly in practical challenges faced on the plant floor.
Full Story: Food Safety Magazine (2/14) 
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SN magazine: Mad about food!

March 5, 2025

Food--sure, it's a way to fuel and nourish our bodies, but it's about so much more. Especially in a school setting! Food is about helping students feel excited about being part of your school community, it's about sharing cultures and it's about expanding horizons by learning to try new things. In this year's annual food issue of School Nutrition, we're looking at everything from cafeteria classics to student-driven menus to the integration of diverse cuisine, all to create a clear picture of how school meals create community. Find all the valuable insights in SN's March/April issue.
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Ohio bill aims to provide free meals for school students

March 3, 2025

Ohio legislators have introduced Senate Bill 109, a bipartisan effort to offer free breakfast and lunch to students in public and charter schools participating in the National School Lunch Program. Sponsored by Sens. Louis Blessing III and Kent Smith, the bill would have the state cover meal costs not reimbursed federally.
Full Story: WOWK-TV (Charleston, W.Va.) (2/28) 
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Alaska bill for free school meals faces cost scrutiny

March 3, 2025

Alaska lawmakers are considering a bill by Rep. Maxine Dibert that would provide free meals to all public school students, with the state Department of Education and Early Development estimating the cost at $28.7 million. Supporters highlight the benefits of improved student performance and reduced absenteeism, while critics express concern about the financial impact on the state.
Full Story: KTOO-TV/FM (Juneau, Alaska) (2/28) 
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Bill to ban artificial dyes in W.Va. schools advances

March 1, 2025

A bill to ban artificial food dyes in school meals is advancing in the West Virginia Senate. Senate Bill 545 targets additives like Red No. 40, citing health concerns such as behavioral issues in children, with Andrew Pense, Fayette County Schools' nutrition director, supporting the bill, noting minimal impact on food sourcing.
Full Story: West Virginia Watch (Charleston) (2/27) 
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Iowa bill seeks state control over school meal nutrition

March 1, 2025

Iowa lawmakers are advancing a bill that would allow the state to set its own nutritional guidelines for school meals, prioritizing animal-based protein and local foods such as corn and pork. The bill seeks to waive federal requirements for sodium and whole grains, raising concerns about potential impacts on funding.
Full Story: Iowa Public Radio (2/27) 
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SNA's Podcast: Now serving Season Three

March 1, 2025

SNA's podcast, "School Food for Thought" is back for Season Three. Get ready to be inspired with seven episodes jam packed with fresh ideas to transform your school nutrition programs. You'll take a seat at the table with school nutrition pros, creative thinkers and industry leaders who have been in your shoes--as they share their experiences, the lessons they've learned and the ideas that have made a real difference in their programs. Catch Season Three on YouTube or SNA's website.
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Healthy School Meals for All

March 1, 2025

Lawmakers in North Dakota are considering legislation to provide all students with school breakfast and lunch at no charge, as flagged by the North Dakota Monitor. Meanwhile, Arkansas has taken a step in the right direction and just passed legislation that will make free school breakfast available to all students regardless of household income. FRAC’s Alexis Bylander discussed the importance of improving students' access to free school meals with Food & Wine, calling on educators, parents, and students to "raise their hand” in support of the nationwide movement.
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NSBW25 is next week!

February 25, 2025

National School Breakfast Week (NSBW25) runs from March 3-7, and celebrating it is more than an event--it's a chance to make a lasting impact on students by showing them the importance of a healthy breakfast. Utilize this year's NSBW25 resources and the official theme, "Clue In to School Breakfast" to make it unforgettable!
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Maine students weigh in on locally-sourced fish cakes

February 23, 2025

The Maine Coast Fishermen's Association has partnered with schools in Brunswick, South Portland, Rumford and Somerville in a project to increase access to local seafood in school lunches. The project, supported by funding from Full Plates Full Potential and the Kendall Foundation, features kid-friendly fish cakes made with locally caught fish, and has been well-received by students.
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Ore. bill for universal free school meals gains support

February 20, 2025

A bill in Oregon to provide free breakfast and lunch to all public school students has received broad bipartisan support, with more than 80% of voters backing it. The legislation aims to address food insecurity, which affects one in six children in the state.
Full Story: Public News Service (2/19) 
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Spokane schools debunk rumor about free meal program

February 20, 2025

Spokane Public Schools and the Central Valley School District in Washington state have debunked a rumor that free school meals have been halted and that parents are being billed, confirming that the program remains unchanged and continues to be funded by the federal government with funds managed by the state.
Full Story: KXLY-TV (Spokane, Wash.) (2/19) 
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Utah advances bill to expand free school lunch program

February 20, 2025

The Utah House Education Committee has advanced House Bill 100, which would expand free school lunches to 40,000 more children by raising the income threshold for eligibility. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Tyler Clancy, would cost $6 million annually, but a substitute version limits eligibility to students in kindergarten through sixth grade to reduce the financial impact.
Full Story: KSTU-TV (Salt Lake City) (2/18) 
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Conn. considers soda tax for funding student meals

February 20, 2025

Connecticut state Sen. Gary Winfield has proposed a bill to implement a tax on sugar-sweetened beverages to fund universal free meals for students. While the bill doesn't specify the tax rate or projected revenue, it aims to address child food insecurity.
Full Story: Hartford Business Journal (Conn.) (2/18) 
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Ark. free breakfast measure awaits governor's signature

February 20, 2025

KARK-TV (Little Rock, Ark.) (2/19) 
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Apply now for an SNF Scholarship to attend ANC25!

February 20, 2025

Have you heard? The School Nutrition Foundation (SNF) is awarding 45 scholarships to SNA members to attend SNA's 2025 Annual National Conference (ANC25) in San Antonio, TX--a chance to gain valuable insights, network and grow in the school nutrition field! Visit the scholarship webpage to review eligibility and complete applications before the March 28 deadline.
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Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act advances in House

February 18, 2025

The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act is advancing through Congress, having passed a House committee by a 24-10 vote. The legislation would allow schools to offer whole and 2% milk in addition to low-fat options, reversing a 2012 ban.
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Utah bills aim to tackle student hunger with free meals

February 18, 2025

Utah lawmakers are addressing student hunger with two bills that would make free meals more accessible in public schools. Rep. Tyler Clancy's bill would provide free breakfast and lunch for all qualifying students, replacing the reduced-price option, and extend meal benefits over the summer. Senator Minority Leader Luz Escamilla's bill, which seeks to offer free meals to all students, was put on hold by the Senate Education Committee last week. Full Story: KUER-FM (Salt Lake City) (2/14) 
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Take action! Protect school meal access for millions of children

February 18, 2025

The House Ways and Means Committee proposed some alarming changes to school meal programs that would reduce student access to vital nutrition and increase costly paperwork and administrative burden for schools. We need your help to protect access to nutritious school meals!
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N.D. House debates school meal funding

February 12, 2025

North Dakota lawmakers are considering whether to fund free school meals, with one bill failing and another advancing. House Bill 1475, which would use $140 million from the general fund, received a "do pass" recommendation and awaits further review.
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Study examines impact of free school meals

February 11, 2025

A University of Kentucky research team, backed by an $800,000 USDA grant, is studying the effects of universal free school meals on food security, household budgets and student health. With potential cuts to school meal funding on the horizon, the study aims to provide data-driven insights to inform future policy decisions at the national level.
Full Story: WKMS-FM (Murray, Ky.) (2/10) 
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Apply now for a 2025 SNF Equipment Grant

February 10, 2025

Apply now--the School Nutrition Foundation (SNF) is awarding over $600,000 worth of equipment to school districts with its 2025 Equipment Grants. Applicants must be current director-level members of SNA. Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, thirteen grants are available. Visit the SNF website to learn more about each grant and fill out your application(s). Apply today -- the deadline is March 12.
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Ready to lead in 2025?

February 7, 2025

Make 2025 the year you put yourself first! You can check "professional growth" off your list of New Year's resolutions with high-quality, no-cost training from the School Nutrition Foundation! The Foundation's LEAD to Succeed™ initiative provides tools and training modules specifically for school nutrition professionals seeking to Learn, Educate, Advance and Develop in the school nutrition field. LEAD was created in partnership with Georgetown University's McDonough School of Business to bring you expert leadership and communications training. Plus, thanks to a grant from USDA, the program is available at no cost to SNA members and non-members. Learn more.
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N.D. considers free meals for all students

February 4, 2025

North Dakota lawmakers are considering a bill to provide free breakfast and lunch to all students including those in public, private and tribal schools. Supporters say the measure would reduce hunger and improve student health and learning, but some citizens argue that feeding children should be the responsibility of parents.
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Don't miss tomorrow's SNA webinar: Making Breakfast Epic with Peanuts!

February 4, 2025

Are you ready to take your school breakfast program to the next level? Join us tomorrow -- Wednesday, February 5 at 3:00 p.m. ET -- for an exciting webinar, Making Breakfast Epic with Peanuts!, packed with strategies to boost student engagement, explore bold flavors and master marketing techniques to celebrate school breakfast everyday…with peanuts! Register today. Thanks to the National Peanut Board for supporting this webinar.
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Free breakfast proposal in Ark. aims to improve performance

February 3, 2025

Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders has proposed free breakfasts for all public school students, a move that mirrors initiatives in states such as Michigan and Pennsylvania. State Sen. Jonathan Dismang has introduced a bill to support the proposal, which aims to enhance academic performance and health.
Full Story: El Dorado News-Times (Ark.) (2/3)
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Take action! Protect school meal access for millions of children

February 3, 2025

The House Ways and Means Committee has proposed concerning changes to school meal programs in an upcoming Reconciliation Bill that would reduce student access to nutrition. We need your help to protect access to nutritious school meals! The proposal would raise CEP eligibility from 25% to 60% ISP--making 24,000+ schools serving over 12 million students ineligible; require income documentation from all families applying for free/reduced-price meals; and cut $12 billion from school meal funding over 10 years. These changes would have an immediate impact on your community. Your voice matters! Tell Congress: "Don't cut access to school meals for millions of students!"
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N.C. governor discusses prospect of free meals for all

January 30, 2025

North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein, who supported the concept of free meals for all students when he was campaigning, said during a visit to Eastern Elementary School in Greenville that he planned to talk with the state budget director about the topic. "I want to make sure we do the best we can within our budgetary constraints to make sure that as many children as need food get that food so they can sit in that classroom and soak up knowledge," said Stein.
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Vt. governor proposes ending universal school meals

January 30, 2025

Vermont Gov. Phil Scott has proposed ending the state's universal school meal program to keep property taxes in check, reverting to prepandemic federal benefits. The program, which costs $18 million, has been funded by the state's Education Fund since federal support ended. Supporters of the program say it helps families who don't qualify for federal aid but still struggle financially.
Full Story: WCAX-TV (Burlington, Vt.) (1/29) 
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Executive Order to Freeze Federal Funds Rescinded

January 30, 2025

President Trump’s Office of Management and Budget (OMB) rescinded a freeze on federal assistance. This is after the OMB issued a sweeping memorandum on January 27 that created chaos and confusion around funding for critical programs that millions of people across the country rely on for food, housing, health care, and other essential services. The freeze was to take effect on Tuesday, January 28, at 5 p.m., but a federal judge blocked the freeze until February 3. 
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Questions arise related to federal funding pause

January 29, 2025

A federal judge has temporarily blocked the Trump administration's hold on the disbursement of federal grants, loans and assistance, potentially affecting USDA disbursements for school nutrition. "We're urging Congress to increase reimbursements for school meals given the financial crisis facing meal programs today, so certainly there's just no room in the budget for missed reimbursements," said Diane Pratt-Heavner, the School Nutrition Association's director of media relations.
Full Story: The Hechinger Report (1/28),  Education Week (1/28),  CBS News (1/28),  The Assoc
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FDA halts updates on foodborne illness outbreaks

January 29, 2025

The FDA has paused updates on foodborne illness outbreak investigations due to a communication halt ordered by the Trump administration, although mission-critical updates are still being issued. Updates on outbreaks associated with contaminated food are generally released on Wednesdays, but no update was released last week.
Full Story: CBS News (1/24) 
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SNA webinar: Your guide to school meal advocacy in 2025!

January 29, 2025

Are you ready to amplify your voice for school meal programs? Join SNA's webinar School Meal Advocacy in 2025 (Wednesday, February 12, 3:00 p.m. ET) to gain insider tips for advocating on behalf of school meal programs at SNA's 2025 Legislative Action Conference (LAC25) and throughout the year! All members are encouraged to participate-especially those attending LAC. Register here.
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Colo. district faces challenges as lunch demand grows

January 27, 2025

The Thompson School District in Colorado is struggling to meet increased demand for school lunches under the Healthy School Meals for All Program. Director of Nutrition Services Lisa Kendall says the district is piloting refrigerated vending machines at two high schools to help manage higher participation in the program.
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Va. bill aims to provide free meals for all students

January 24, 2025

House Bill 1958 in Virginia proposes that all local school boards must participate in federal school lunch and breakfast programs, ensuring that meals are available to any student who requests them. This legislation aims to expand access to free meals statewide, addressing the needs of nearly 400,000 children who qualify for free breakfast but currently do not receive it.
Full Story: Public News Service (1/24) 
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Conn. joins states pushing for whole milk in schools

January 24, 2025

Connecticut has introduced a bill to allow whole milk in schools, joining states such as Tennessee and North Dakota in challenging the National School Lunch Program's restrictions. The bill, proposed by Rep. Anne Dauphinais, R-Killingly, has been referred to a joint committee.
Full Story: Lancaster Farming (Pa.) (1/23) 
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Start 2025 strong with free LEAD to Succeed™ training

January 24, 2025

Kick off the new year with high-quality, no-cost training from the School Nutrition Foundation! The Foundation's LEAD to Succeed™ initiative provides tools and training modules specifically for school nutrition professionals seeking to Learn, Educate, Advance and Develop in the school nutrition field. LEAD was created in partnership with Georgetown University's McDonough School of Business to bring you expert leadership and communications training. Plus, thanks to a grant from USDA, the program is available at no cost to SNA members and non-members. Learn more.
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Alaska bill proposes free school meals

January 23, 2025

Alaska Rep. Maxine Dibert, who was a teacher for decades, has introduced a bill to provide free breakfast and lunch to all students, regardless of income. The bill aims to address food insecurity, a problem exacerbated by the end of federal pandemic relief funds.
Full Story: Alaska Beacon (Juneau) (1/22) 
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Economic concerns drive push for free school meals

January 22, 2025

Wisconsin Democrats have reintroduced legislation to provide free meals for all public and private school students, citing rising costs and the benefits of universal meal programs. The proposal, led by state Rep. Francesca Hong, aims to reimburse schools using state aid.
Full Story: The Cap Times (Madison, Wis.) (1/20) 
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N.D. bill proposes bringing whole milk back to schools

January 21, 2025

North Dakota state Rep. Dawson Holle has introduced a bill to allow whole milk in schools, citing health benefits and potential positive effects for dairy farmers. The bill, which has the support of the North Dakota Farmers Union and the Milk Producers Association of North Dakota, passed out of the House Agriculture Committee last week.
Full Story: Lancaster Farming (Pa.) (1/20) 


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Celebrate the brightest stars in school nutrition

January 15, 2025

Nominate a colleague (or yourself!) for an SNA Award which highlights the outstanding and important work of SNA members and state affiliates. Directors, Managers, Employees and Industry members are eligible for state, national and regional awards that recognize their achievements. Learn more.
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Study: Not all ultraprocessed foods are equally harmful

January 10, 2025

Interim study data presented by the NIH and the FDA suggest that not all ultraprocessed foods are equally harmful. Foods that are energy-dense and hyperpalatable, such as those high in fat, sugar and sodium, tend to lead to overeating and weight gain. However, packaged foods without these traits, such as low-sodium soups, refried beans and canned peaches, do not have the same negative effects.
Full Story: The Wall Street Journal (1/7) 
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Recognize a colleague: SNA's 2025 Awards

January 10, 2025

Nominate a colleague (or yourself!) for an SNA Award which highlights the outstanding and important work of SNA members and state affiliates. Directors, Managers, Employees and Industry members are eligible for state, national and regional awards that recognize their achievements. Learn more.
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Hochul proposes free meals for all N.Y. students

January 13, 2025

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul has proposed providing free breakfast and lunch to all students regardless of income -- a plan that would close the gap for about 300,000 students who currently do not qualify for free meals. The proposal, part of Hochul's 2025 State of the State, aims to save parents an estimated $165 per month per child and requires approval from the state Legislature.
Full Story: New York Upstate (1/10) 
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School Nutrition magazine: Read the January/February 2025 issue

January 13, 2025

Opportunities for professional development and ongoing education come in a variety of formats, so there's a way to do it that fits every individual and every team. The January/February 2025 issue of School Nutrition explores how you can take advantage of those opportunities to create a stronger team among you and your colleagues. Read the January/February 2025 issue.
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Wash. considers 20-minute school lunch rule

January 14, 2025

Washington's state superintendent is reviewing a rule requiring a minimum of 20 seated minutes for school lunch in nearly 300 districts, addressing concerns about inadequate eating time. Public testimony on the proposal will be heard virtually today.
Full Story: KING-TV (Seattle) (1/13) 
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Food insecurity drives push for free school meals in Hawaii

January 14, 2025

The Hawaii County Council is considering a resolution to urge the state Legislature to implement a universal free school meals program, citing high food insecurity rates, particularly on Hawaii Island. The program, estimated to cost $25 million, aims to support households that do not qualify for existing meal programs but still struggle financially.
Full Story: Hawaii Public Radio (1/10)
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Md. district opens emergency meal sites

January 8, 2025

Montgomery County Public Schools in Maryland have opened 16 emergency meal distribution sites for students and children under 18 after a winter storm forced school closures. The sites offer warm meals and grab-and-go options with warming instructions.
Full Story: Patch (1/7),  DC News Now (Washington, D.C.) (1/7) 
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Supply chain woes appear to ease for school nutrition programs

January 7, 2025

The USDA reports that 95% of school food service authorities faced supply chain challenges in the 2023-24 school year, with high food costs, staffing shortages and product availability as the top issues. Food service materials were more readily available than the previous year and cost concerns had decreased, but staffing remained a significant issue, with the number of schools reporting shortages staying the same as the previous year at 57%. The percentage of school food service authorities reporting that they were operating at a surplus or breaking even had declined notably.
Full Story: K-12 Dive (1/3) 
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Fla. considers free meals for students in public schools

January 7, 2025

Florida state Sen. Lori Berman has introduced a bill to provide free breakfast and lunch to all 2.8 million public school students in the state, regardless of family income. Berman said the change would reduce stigma, while state Sen. President Ben Albritton expressed concerns about eliminating income qualifications.
Full Story: WCTV-TV (Tallahassee, Fla.) (1/6) 



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Experts reveal diverse strategies for handling food recalls

January 6, 2025

Food recalls are increasingly common, affecting a wide range of products from lunch meat to organic carrots. Food safety experts, such as Darin Detwiler from Northeastern University and Ellen Shumaker from North Carolina State University, respond to recalls by scrutinizing details and deciding on precautions. Detwiler often avoids entire categories if systemic issues are involved, while Shumaker checks for cross-contamination in other products. Barbara Kowalcyk from George Washington University is diligent about checking and reporting recalled products.
Full Story: Food & Wine (1/1) 
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Pa. bill aims to reintroduce whole milk in schools

January 3, 2025

Pennsylvania state Sen. Michele Brooks has reintroduced a bill to allow whole milk in schools, citing health benefits and economic impact. The Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 restricted whole milk in schools, leading to a decline in milk consumption.
Full Story: WTAJ-TV (Altoona, Pa.) (1/1) 
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SN Magazine: Thriving together in the workplace

December 19, 2024

In the November/December 2024 issue of School Nutrition magazine you'll find articles to create a thriving workplace, including "Celebrating the Multigenerational Workforce," which encourages collaboration between different generations on your team and sets you up for better innovation and problem-solving because of the unique perspectives of each age group. Log into your SNA account and read this feature and all of the informative coverage found in the November/December 2024 edition.
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RFK Jr.'s health agenda includes school lunch overhaul

December 18, 2024

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., nominated to lead the Department of Health and Human Services, aims to eliminate processed foods from school lunches as part of his "Make America Healthy Again" agenda. While he would not directly control school meals, he could influence dietary guidelines, which are crucial for federal nutrition programs.
Full Story: Education Week (12/17) 
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Discover the healthful benefits, culinary uses of beets

December 18, 2024

Beets -- from the greens to the bulb -- are a versatile and nutritious vegetable, offering healthful benefits such as supporting healthy blood pressure and detoxification due to their nitrate and phytonutrient content, says registered dietitian Ella Davar. Beets also have various culinary uses, from breakfast pancakes to dinner curries to beet brownies for dessert, showcasing their adaptability in meals throughout the day.
Full Story: MindBodyGreen (12/16) 
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SNA's 2025 Election Ballot announced

December 18, 2024

In early December, the SNA Leadership Development Committee (LDC) held the 2024 Selection Meeting to review candidates for positions on the SNA Board of Directors, SNA Industry Advisory Council and the LDC. After reviewing the biographical information on each candidate, as well as supporting documents such as the candidate's goals and recommendations submitted by colleagues, the Committee selected a slate for the 2025 SNA Election. Learn more.
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Holiday Giveaway: Step into the season in style

December 16, 2024

We're spreading holiday cheer with an exciting Holiday Giveaway, sponsored by our friends at Shoes For Crews. Four lucky winners will snag a gift card to claim a FREE pair of Shoes For Crews shoes--perfect for staying comfy and stylish all year round. Learn how to enter so you can snap, share and win!
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How a belief in growth can lead you to success

December 16, 2024

Success stories often overlook the journey from beginner to expert, but the key difference between those who succeed and those who don't is a growth mindset, Naphtali Hoff writes. "If you look at anyone who has reached the top of their field, you'll find countless hours of practice, persistence through failure and a willingness to learn from mistakes," Hoff notes.
Full Story: SmartBrief/Leadership (12/13) 
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Help spread the word about the benefits of healthy school meals

December 12, 2024

Did you know that 1 in 8 kids in America live in a household without consistent access to adequate food? School lunches don’t just keep kids healthy–they keep kids from being hungry so they can learn. The Made with School Lunch campaign, from SNA and the National Dairy Council, brings awareness to the massive need for school meals—and how school meals make it possible for all kids to do the most important thing of all... grow up! Check out the videos, graphics, posters and social media posts to help you get the word out.
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Check out SNA's Food Allergy Resource Center

December 12, 2024

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.
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Proposal would ban ultraprocessed foods in Ariz. schools

December 10, 2024

Arizona Rep. Leo Biasiucci is proposing legislation to ban ultraprocessed foods in public schools, targeting ingredients such as potassium bromate and artificial dyes. The bill aims to ensure safer meals for students, but the Arizona School Boards Association notes the need for funding to support the transition.
Full Story: KAWC-FM (Yuma, Ariz.) (12/10) 
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USDA launches national milk testing for avian flu

December 10, 2024

The USDA has launched the National Milk Testing Strategy to detect H5N1 avian influenza, requiring raw milk testing and epidemiological data collection. This initiative aims to enhance disease surveillance and control, providing a roadmap for states to protect dairy herd health.
Full Story: Healio (free registration) (12/9) 
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SCOTUS won't hear case about transgender student policy

December 10, 2024

The US Supreme Court has declined to hear an appeal from parents challenging guidance by the Eau Claire Area School District, in Wisconsin, regarding the support of transgender students. The parents argued that the policy runs afoul of parental rights and religious freedom, but lower courts -- including a unanimous panel of the US Court of Appeals for the 7th Circuit -- ruled that no parent showed evidence of the guidance affecting them or their children.
Full Story: The Associated Press (12/9) 
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N.J. students help select next year's school meals

December 7, 2024

High-school students in New Jersey participated in the State Department of Agriculture's USDA Food Conference to sample and evaluate potential school lunch options for the next year, such as pulled pork. The event, held at the New Jersey Conference and Expo Center, allows students to have a say in what appears on their menus, ensuring that the selections are appealing to them.
Full Story: WPIX-TV (New York City) (12/6) 
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Great Idea Wis. proposal seeks funding for universal school meals

December 4, 2024

Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction Superintendent Jill Underly has proposed $290 million in the state budget to provide universal school meals, highlighting benefits such as improved behavior and nutrition. The proposal aims to address food insecurity among students who do not qualify for free meals under current guidelines.
Full Story: Wisconsin Examiner (Madison) (11/28) 
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JCN&M Fall issue is available

December 4, 2024

The Fall 2024 edition of the Journal of Child Nutrition & Management (JCN&M), SNA's peer-reviewed academic publication, is available on the SNA website. Check out the latest child nutrition research articles. Interested in contributing? The Journal is now seeking submissions for the Spring 2025 and Fall 2025 issues on a variety of child nutrition topics, including nutrition standards and education, administration, food safety, marketing and more. Review the contribution guidelines here.
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Libraries bring health resources to communities

December 3, 2024

Libraries across the US are expanding their role by offering public health programs like mobile clinics, blood pressure monitoring, mental health resources and nutrition classes. These initiatives leverage libraries' accessibility and trusted status to address community health needs without requiring money, insurance or ID, reaching people beyond traditional health care settings.
Full Story: The Associated Press (11/29) 
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Discover how you and your team can become health infused!

December 2, 2024

Don't miss this week's SNA webinar, "Best of ANC24: How You and Your School Nutrition Team Can Become Health Infused," on Wednesday, December 4 at 3:00 p.m. ET. In this highly informative, dynamic and humorous session, wellness specialist, 30-year school nutrition director and professional speaker Fred "The Fit Food Dude" Schafer, will share seven "doable" wellness best practices to reduce team stress and anxiety. Learn more and register today.
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CDC recalls carrots after deadly E. coli outbreak

November 20, 2024

The CDC has announced a recall of carrots and baby carrots sold under brands including Nature's Promise, Wegmans and Trader Joe's due to an E. coli outbreak that has resulted in one death and 15 hospitalizations across 18 states. The outbreak is linked to organic carrots from Grimmway Farms. Consumers are advised to discard the products and monitor for symptoms of E. coli infection.
Full Story: The Washington Post (11/18), National Public Radio (11/17) 
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Learn to thrive together in the workplace with SN Magazine

November 20, 2024

There's a lot that goes into creating a thriving workplace, from encouraging togetherness to promoting professional development to celebrating every member of your diverse team--and cultivating a positive work environment is key to ensure you and your entire team can work together toward your goal of feeding students. Read the November/December issue of School Nutrition, and discover exactly how you can bring people together and create a workplace where everyone feels valued and has the tools they need to be successful, regardless of their culture, age, ability or work experience.
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Tenn. bill proposes free school meals for all students

November 19, 2024

Tennessee Rep. John Ray Clemmons has introduced a bill to provide free breakfast and lunch to all students in the state. The legislation, HB0012, would require the state to reimburse local education agencies for meal costs after federal funds are used, with the program starting in the 2025-26 school year if the bill is passed.
Full Story: WZTV-TV (Nashville, Tenn.) (11/18) 
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Congratulation Howard County Md. district tests new diverse lunch options

November 18, 2024

Howard County schools in Maryland are conducting taste tests to explore new lunch menu options, aiming to offer healthier and culturally unique meals that reflect the student body's diversity. At a recent event, students and parents sampled dishes such as egg rolls and Buffalo chicken flatbread, providing feedback on taste and presentation.
Full Story: The Baltimore Banner (11/16) 
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Congratulations Frederick CountyVeggie Van brings fresh produce to schools

November 18, 2024

Farm to School Frederick's Veggie Van has completed a successful 10-week pilot program at Waverley Elementary School, providing fresh produce to food-insecure communities in Frederick, Md. The mobile farmers market, run by volunteers and supported by local farms, offers affordable fruits and vegetables, aiming to improve access to healthy food and educate young students about nutrition.
Full Story: The Frederick News-Post (Md.) (11/14) 
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This week's SNA webinar: USDA Foods 101

November 18, 2024

Join us for USDA Foods 101 - Why Does it Matter to Me? on Wednesday, Nov. 20 at 3:00 p.m. This webinar, co-hosted by American Commodity Distribution Association (ACDA), will give you an overview of the USDA Foods program, covering its history, key terms and practical strategies to help schools provide nutritious, budget-friendly meals. Learn more and register here.
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Mass. district invites families to taste test school meals

November 13, 2024

The Howard County Public School System in Massachusetts is hosting "Taste Test Night" to engage families in evaluating school meal options. The event, set for Thursday at Guilford Park High School, allows students and parents to sample and rate current and potential new menu items. This initiative is part of broader efforts to enhance the quality and appeal of school meals in the district.
Full Story: WMAR-TV (Baltimore) (11/11) 
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Upcoming SNA Webinar

November 12, 2024

Join us for USDA Foods 101 - Why Does it Matter to Me? on Wednesday, Nov. 20 at 3:00 p.m. This webinar, co-hosted by American Commodity Distribution Association (ACDA), will give you an overview of the USDA Foods program, covering its history, key terms and practical strategies to help schools provide nutritious, budget-friendly meals. Learn more and register here.
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FCC cybersecurity pilot sees overwhelming demand

November 12, 2024

The Federal Communications Commission has received $3.7 billion in requests from schools and libraries for its new cybersecurity pilot program, which has a budget of $200 million over three years. The pilot aims to help with the cost of cybersecurity services and equipment, highlighting the growing need for protection against cyberattacks such as ransomware.
Full Story: K-12 Dive (11/11) 
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Massachusetts Senate Introduces Bill to Provide Additional School Breakfast Funding

November 12, 2024

Massachusetts Senate Introduces Bill to Provide Additional School Breakfast Funding, FoodService Director, November 5, 2024 
Massachusetts lawmakers have introduced S. 2974, which would provide additional funding for school breakfast in the state. Massachusetts is one of eight states that provides school meals at no charge to all students. State nutrition officials say school breakfast participation rose by 9 million breakfasts in the first year of Healthy School Meals for All. 
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Smart Briefs Sources -Colo. district sees academic gains from universal meals

November 9, 2024

Since joining Colorado's Healthy School Meals for All program, the Ignacio School District has increased its daily meal service by 20%, serving about 900 students daily. This expansion addresses food insecurity, helping students focus better and improving test scores, with Ignacio Elementary School showing a significant leap in performance. Teachers Cindy Valdez and Allison deKay have observed improved student concentration and energy levels, highlighting the program's broader impact on student well-being.
Full Story: The Durango Herald (Colo.) (11/5) 
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SNA's Food Allergy Resource Center

November 9, 2024

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.
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Federal nutrition policies boost school meal participation

November 7, 2024

A study by the University of California, Davis, found that more families purchased school meals following the implementation of the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act, which enhanced nutritional standards for school meals. The research, which analyzed the purchasing habits of nearly 8,000 US households, found that the policy attracted increased participation by offering healthier food options, particularly benefiting families with limited time and financial resources.
Full Story: PhysOrg (11/7) 
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Magnesium shows potential for ADHD symptom management

November 7, 2024

Research indicates that magnesium supplementation may aid in improving attention deficit hyperactivity disorder symptoms, such as conduct and social problems, anxiety, and shyness in children. Magnesium is believed to play a crucial role in neurotransmitter regulation and brain function, potentially making it a valuable therapeutic agent for ADHD.
Full Story: Medical News Today (11/5) 
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Help spread the word about the benefits of healthy school meals

November 6, 2024

Did you know that 1 in 8 kids in America live in a household without consistent access to adequate food? School lunches don’t just keep kids healthy–they keep kids from being hungry so they can learn. The Made with School Lunch campaign, from SNA and the National Dairy Council, brings awareness to the massive need for school meals—and how school meals make it possible for all kids to do the most important thing of all... grow up! Check out the videos, graphics, posters and social media posts to help you get the word out.
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USDA to ban school meal fees for low-income students

November 4, 2024

The USDA announced a ban on online processing fees for low-income families participating in the School Breakfast and National School Lunch Programs starting in the 2027-28 school year. This move aims to eliminate these fees, which inflate meal costs for students eligible for free and reduced-price meals. According to a statement from the USDA, the ban will eventually extend to all students.
Full Story: K-12 Dive (11/1) 
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Universal Possibility in Wisconsin

November 4, 2024


Wisconsin may be the next state to implement a Healthy School Meals for All program. The state’s Superintendent of Public Instruction has requested almost $294 million in the upcoming budget to provide school meals at no charge to all students. The funding would also support local food-purchasing programs for schools, expand the school breakfast program to include independent charter schools, and increase the breakfast reimbursement rate. 
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U.S. Department of Agriculture Gets Rid of School Meal Processing Fees for Low-Income Families

November 4, 2024


Beginning in the 2027–2028 school year, families who qualify for free or reduced-price school meals will no longer have to pay junk fees to add money to their child’s school meal account. USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack announced the policy on November 3, saying schools should strive to implement the change as soon as possible. A report from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau released earlier this year found that online processing fees burden families with low incomes the most.  
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Seattle Public Schools See Positive Impact From Statewide Free Meal Program

November 4, 2024


Recent changes in Washington state law have made school meals available at no charge to around 70 percent of the state’s 1.1 million students. Over 775,000 students are now eligible for free school meals. School food service professionals say free meals are eliminating stigma in the cafeteria, supporting academic success, and combating food insecurity, while allowing school meal staff to focus on nutrition education and meal quality.  
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Wash. school district brings local foods to meals

November 1, 2024

The South Kitsap School District in Washington state is spotlighting local agriculture through Taste Washington Day, aiming to serve fresh, local foods to students. Patricia Barrett, director of food and nutrition services for the district, emphasizes that this initiative goes beyond a single event, integrating local sourcing into nutrition strategy. The district collaborates with local farmers to provide diverse produce, meats and grains, enhancing students' understanding of food origins and promoting healthier eating habits.
Full Story: Kitsap Daily News (Wash.) (10/30) 
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Calif. nonprofit hosts farm-to-school event

November 1, 2024

The Farm-to-School summit hosted by the Ecology Center in San Juan Capistrano, Calif., brought together farmers, educators, and food service professionals to promote organic, local, and regenerative school lunches. The event aimed to bridge the gap between California schools and local agriculture, and key discussions focused on creating sustainable supply chains and integrating fresh, local produce into school cafeterias.
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Plant-based diets linked to reduced migraine symptoms

November 1, 2024

The study in Nutrients explores how dietary changes can influence migraine management, with a focus on plant-based diets. Researchers found that these diets, which are high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, may reduce migraine frequency and severity. The findings suggest that diet can modify the need for medication, improving the quality of life for migraine sufferers.
Full Story: VegNews (10/28) 
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Earn 20+ CEUs for free with LEAD to Succeed™ Training

November 1, 2024

Looking for award-winning, no-cost professional development? Earn over 20+ CEUs with the School Nutrition Foundation’s (SNF) LEAD to Succeed™ training. In this training you’ll find 21+ hours of expert-led, top-tier training with two specialized series (Communication for Impact and Leadership Growth). This high-quality, turnkey professional development training was created specifically for school nutrition professionals and is available at no cost. Start learning today! Dive right into the content on your own time in the SNA Training Zone.
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SN Plus: The Power of Giving Back

October 31, 2024

In this new SN Plus article from School Nutrition magazine, Coffee County Schools Nutrition Director Dawn Lewis shares what her team faced after Hurricane Helene's destruction and how they came together—along with Georgia state representatives, industry partners and other community members—to serve and rebuild their community. This digital bonus article is sure to resonate with school nutrition professionals at all levels—so be sure to share the "The Power of Giving Back" link with your team members. School Nutrition thanks Hobart, a division of ITW Food Equipment Group, for its generous support in making this article available.
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Universal meal program benefits Seattle school district

October 31, 2024

Seattle Public Schools have positively responded to Washington's statewide free meal program, which now covers 70% of the state's students. Aaron Smith, the district's director of culinary services, emphasizes the importance of student feedback in shaping culturally relevant menus. The state's initiative has reduced stigma and increased meal participation, with lunch and breakfast participation rising by 32% and 50%, respectively.
Full Story: The Seattle Medium (10/30) 
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Pa. high school students explore international cuisines

October 31, 2024

Hatboro-Horsham High School in Pennsylvania has introduced a new initiative to introduce diverse cultural menu offerings. Every third Tuesday, students can sample dishes from different cultures, starting with chicken tikka masala and including upcoming options like tamales and birria tacos. The program involves guest chefs who train staff on preparation techniques, with the aim of integrating popular dishes into the regular menu.
Full Story: The Reporter (Lansdale, Pa.) (10/30)
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Membership Forward: Grow Together!

October 29, 2024

Imagine the impact you can make by bringing someone new to SNA. Our Membership Forward campaign is your chance to make a significant contribution while also showing support for school nutrition and your professional association. It’s easy to help! Simply recruit at least one new member by May 31, 2025, to be eligible for a random prize drawing. Get the details here, and happy recruiting!
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Texas district's program brings global flavors to lunches

October 20, 2024

The Port Aransas Independent School District in Texas has launched the Passport Program to introduce elementary students to global cultures through their school lunches. Spearheaded by the district's food services director, Suzanne Horine, the initiative uses a paper passport system to reward students with stamps for trying cuisines from different countries. So far, German and Cuban dishes have been popular, and Indian cuisine is planned for the next cultural day in December.
Full Story: KRIS-TV (Corpus Christi, Texas) (10/29) 
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Wis. superintendent proposes universal school meals

October 28, 2024

Wisconsin's State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Jill Underly, has proposed making breakfast and lunch free for all K-12 students in the state, regardless of household income. The universal school meal program aims to address food insecurity, as highlighted by a survey showing 1 in 4 high schoolers experienced hunger due to lack of food at home. The $294 million proposal requires legislative approval, following a previous attempt by Governor Tony Evers that was not passed.
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Educator calls for Ark. to enact universal school meals

October 28, 2024

The call for universal free school meals in Arkansas is gaining attention as many families struggle to afford lunches despite minor income increases that disqualify them from assistance, writes educator Tyler McBride. With a $700 million budget surplus, the state has the means to address the highest food insecurity rate in the country, ensuring all students can focus on learning, McBride added.
Full Story: News From The States (10/28) 
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SNA advocates for school nutrition practitioners on the DGAC

October 28, 2024

Recently, SNA submitted comments to the 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee (DGAC), advocating for the inclusion of a school nutrition practitioner on the Committee. In the comment letter, SNA highlighted the critical role school meal programs play in feeding nearly 30 million students daily and highlighted the practical challenges of implementing the Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGAs) in school settings. Learn more.
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Minn. school nutrition pro praises universal meals

October 24, 2024

The implementation of a universal school meals program in Minnesota has transformed school food service, ensuring all students can receive free meals daily, writes Tilly Gitchuway, a school nutrition professional for Minneapolis Public Schools, who shared personal stories about opposing previous policies that denied meals to students without funds. "I believe in a state where every student, regardless of their parents' financial situation, gets breakfast and lunch at school," adds Gitchuway. "No shame. No meal debt. Just the nourishment they need to grow, learn and thrive."
Full Story: Minnesota Reformer (St. Paul) (10/23) 
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Help shape SNA's 2025 Position Paper and win a trip to LAC25

October 24, 2024

SNA's Public Policy and Legislation Committee (PPL) is preparing to draft the Association's 2025 Position Paper and needs YOUR input on top advocacy priorities and school meal program challenges. On Wednesday, Oct. 9, at 1 p.m. ET, all current SNA members received an email from SNA containing a unique link to participate in SNA's Position Paper and Trends survey. Please take this opportunity to raise your voice on the top issues SNA should address in our outreach to Congress and USDA. Every SNA member who completes the survey will be enrolled in a drawing to win one of two FREE registrations to SNA's 2025 Legislative Action Conference in Washington, D.C.! Learn more.
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Advocates push for universal school meals in N.Y. budget

October 23, 2024

Over 200 organizations and schools are urging New York state Gov. Kathy Hochul to fund a statewide universal school meal program as part of the 2026 Executive Budget. The Healthy School Meals for All New York Kids coalition highlights that despite recent expansions, 320,000 students lack access to universal meals. Advocates argue that universal meals provide significant financial relief to families and improve student participation and performance.
Full Story: Finger Lakes Daily News (N.Y.) (10/23) 
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Nev. students compete in school meal cooking challenge

October 23, 2024

The Healthy Meals Summit in Las Vegas featured a cooking competition where Nevada's Clark County School District students created budget-friendly, nutritious school meals. Rancho High School student Prinz Villagracia's culturally inspired Thai tofu tacos won the challenge, which was organized by the USDA and Action for Healthy Kids. The event also focused on the USDA's financial support for schools to overcome budgetary challenges in providing nutritious meals.
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Earn 20+ CEUs for free with LEAD to Succeed™ Training

October 23, 2024

Looking for award-winning, no-cost professional development? Earn over 20+ CEUs with the School Nutrition Foundation’s (SNF) LEAD to Succeed™ training. In this training you’ll find 21+ hours of expert-led, top-tier training with two specialized series (Communication for Impact and Leadership Growth). This high-quality, turnkey professional development training was created specifically for school nutrition professionals and is available at no cost. Start learning today! Dive right into the content on your own time in the SNA Training Zone.
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Ore. legislators advocate for universal school meals

October 22, 2024

Oregon state lawmakers, led by Reps. Courtney Neron and Ben Bowman, are advocating for a bill to expand the School Meals for All program to include all public schools. Currently, 94% of Oregon's public schools provide free meals, but 65 schools do not participate due to various challenges. The proposed expansion is supported by $417.4 million in federal matching funds and backed by a coalition of anti-hunger advocates.
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These small actions can have a big impact on leadership

October 21, 2024

Effective leadership involves focusing on small, everyday actions rather than just significant accomplishments, leadership coach Scott Cochrane writes. Cochrane suggests leaders should strive every day to solve problems, make progress towards goals, assist others, clarify team direction and reinforce core values.
Full Story: Scott Cochrane (10/17) 
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Scholarships available for LAC25

October 18, 2025

The School Nutrition Foundation (SNF) is offering scholarships to SNA members to help offset the costs of attending SNA’s Legislative Action Conference (LAC25) on March 9 to 11, 2025, in Washington, D.C. SNF will be awarding a total of fifteen (15) LAC scholarships and the deadline to apply is Nov. 8. Learn more and apply today!
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Minn. school nutrition pros balance taste, nutrition

October 17, 2024

Jess Pena, director of school nutrition for Red Wing Public Schools in Minnesota and secretary for the Minnesota School Nutrition Association, said districts are balancing creating menus that students will want to eat with nutrition standards, with options like chicken Caesar wraps. In this interview, she added that school nutrition professionals are working to include locally sourced food, including beef, in school meals.
Full Story: CBS News (10/16) 
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10M pounds of meat products recalled due to listeria threat

October 15, 2024

Nearly 10 million pounds of pre-cooked meat and poultry products sold in major retailers across the country have been recalled due to the threat of listeria contamination, according to the USDA. BrucePac ready-to-eat poultry, which may be found in salads, pre-packaged and frozen meals sold at stores including Walmart, Target and Trader Joe's should be thrown away or returned to the seller, the USDA recommends in a 326-page document listing all affected products.
Full Story: USA Today (10/14) 
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Ahoy, mateys, it's National School Lunch Week!

October 15, 2024

It's time to hoist the sails for National School Lunch Week (#NSLW24), and this year's theme: “School Lunch Pirates: Find Your Treasure!”

·  Submit your photos: Fill out our quick photo submission form and upload your best shots.
·  Tag us on social: Share your NSLW prep by tagging @schoolnutritionassoc on Instagram or using the hashtag #NSLW24.
And if you need some last-minute inspiration, explore the treasure trove of SNA resources to help you create a legendary event.
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Va. Farm to School Week highlights local produce

October 15, 2024

During Virginia's Farm to School Week, Rockingham County schools celebrated locally sourced meals, highlighting produce and meats from area farms. The initiative connects students to agriculture with hands-on learning experiences that emphasize the importance of local farmers.
Full Story: WHSV-TV (Harrisonburg, Va.) (10/14) 
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School lunches as educational, transformative tools

October 15, 2024

In their book "Transforming School Food Politics around the World," Dr. Jennifer Gaddis and Dr. Sarah A. Robert discuss how school lunches can be educational experiences. They draw on international examples from Brazil, Finland and Japan, where school food programs are used to teach skills and values, and they emphasize the potential for US schools to transform food systems and challenge existing assumptions about school meals.
Full Story: WORT-FM (Madison, Wis.) (10/14) 
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Experts call for better nutrition education in medicine

October 15, 2024

A panel of experts has identified 36 nutrition competencies to include in medical education -- highlighting the importance of diet in preventing and treating disease. The panel urges training in evidence-based, culturally sensitive nutrition and calls for nutrition competency to be assessed in medical licensing exams.
 Full Story: The Washington Post (10/14) 
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In School Food Pantry

October 8, 2024

Some students at a New Hampshire school rely on an in-house food pantry that is run by students.

Around a fifth of students at Pittsfield Middle High School rely on the food pantry, run by peers eager to give them a helping hand.

The pantry started about 10 years ago as a project for the school's National Honor Society Program.

Since then, local organizations have collaborated with volunteers to help with inventory, providing everything from food to toiletries. Edible items include easy-to-make meals, like mac and cheese, and canned goods.

All year long, the facility located near the cafeteria stays stocked with donations, and is run by Honor Society students. It opens up after an announcement made Friday afternoon over the intercom invites anyone to line up and receive what they need.

In a building of about 270 students, around 50 of them receive the supplies provided for them. It's also a chance for younger kids coming from Pittsfield Middle School to look up to older grades doing good for their community.

"It's nice to see the high fives and 'thank you's. The students just really appreciate it," said Melissa Brown, the assistant principal at Pittsfield Middle High School and Advisor to the National Honor Society. "It's a good feeling."
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Texas school district offers locally sourced meals

The Central Independent School District in Texas now serves locally sourced Texas-grown beef and produce in school cafeterias to provide fresher, healthier meals for students. The district's child nutrition program emphasizes scratch cooking, supporting local farmers and increasing student participation in school meals. Full Story: The Lufkin Daily News (Texas) (10/10)
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Scholarships available for LAC25

October 11, 2024

The School Nutrition Foundation (SNF) is offering scholarships to SNA members to help offset the costs of attending SNA’s Legislative Action Conference (LAC25) on March 9 to 11, 2025, in Washington, D.C. SNF will be awarding a total of fifteen (15) LAC scholarships and the deadline to apply is Nov. 8. Learn more and apply today!
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Senator calls for expanded free school meal access in Pa.

October 9, 2024

US Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., is supporting universal school lunches to reduce stigma and ensure students are well-fed, citing its importance for learning and community well-being. The Windber Area School District in Pennsylvania already qualifies for free lunch service for all due to its high percentage of low-income families, highlighting the potential benefits of such a policy. Other districts like the Cambria Heights School District and the Central Cambria School District, which face significant school lunch debt, support the initiative, noting it could alleviate financial strain during inflationary times.
Full Story: WJAC-TV (Johnstown, Pa.) (10/7) 
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USDA grants boost farm-to-school partnerships

October 9, 2024

Schools in New York state are using USDA grants to purchase locally grown food directly from farmers to provide students with nutritious meals and support local agriculture. The USDA has announced a further $500 million investment to expand the Local Food for Schools program, including significant funding for child-care centers to source food locally.

Full Story: Public News Service (10/4) 

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Daily lentils lower cholesterol naturally

October 9, 2024

A recent study found that eating a cup of lentils daily can reduce total and LDL cholesterol without causing significant digestive issues. Lentils, rich in protein, fiber and antioxidants, are a low-cost, nutritious way to improve heart health and combat inflammation.
Full Story: USA Today (10/9) 
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Va. school district hosts first lunch taste testing

October 8, 2024

Loudoun County Public Schools in Virginia hosted its first food show to allow students and parents to sample and provide feedback on new, diverse school lunch options, such as grilled chicken fattoush salad and fiesta chili. The event aimed to improve school meals by offering higher-quality dishes that better reflect the district's student population.
Full Story: The Washington Post (10/7) 
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Ga. school system serving hurricane responders meals

October 8, 2024

The Richmond County School System in Georgia is offering hot meals to first responders and community members following Hurricane Helene, with multiple schools serving meals throughout the day. This initiative was launched to support those affected by the storm and will continue until mid-October.
Full Story: WJBF-TV (Augusta, Ga.) (10/6) 
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Teal pumpkins signal allergen-free Halloween treats

October 8, 2024

The Teal Pumpkin Project supports children with food allergies by promoting the distribution of nonfood treats during Halloween. Families can display teal pumpkins to show they offer safe options, with allergist Dr. Douglas Jones suggesting caregiver strategies for a safe Halloween, including setting clear boundaries, having an emergency plan, knowing allergic reaction signs and educating children about their allergies.
Full Story: Healio (free registration) (10/3) 
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Calif. bill prioritizes safety for food-allergic students

October 8, 2024

The "Protecting Children with Food Allergies Act" aims to safeguard children with allergies in educational settings by mandating training for school personnel to manage allergic reactions and providing WIC recipients with information on preventing food allergies. The proposal would amend the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 to address the needs of food-allergic children and their families, promoting safety and awareness in schools and beyond.
Full Story: Healio (free registration) (10/3) 
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New cybersecurity guide for schools, libraries

October 8, 2024

The Federal Communications Commission and US Department of Education have released a guide to help schools and libraries improve cybersecurity protections that offers practical, cost-effective steps. This comes as ransomware attacks on educational institutions continue to rise -- with significant financial and data losses reported.
Full Story: K-12 Dive (10/4) 
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SNA lauds USDA release of funds; urges Congress to raise school meal reimbursements

October 8, 2024

SNA praised USDA’s release of much-needed funds for school meal programs. As schools struggle to manage persistently high costs since the lapse of pandemic funding, SNA has urged Congress to increase federal reimbursements for school meals. Learn more.
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High-schoolers in Minn. provide produce for school meals

October 7, 2024

Students at Humboldt High School in Minnesota's Saint Paul Public Schools are participating in a gardening program that provides fresh produce for their school cafeteria and local community. The program, which will receive $150,000 in additional funding, helps students develop agricultural skills while supporting local food access initiatives.
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Food allergies lead to anxiety in patients, caregivers

October 7, 2024

A study in the journal Allergy found about 68% of adults with food allergies and 78% of caregivers of children with food allergies had experienced psychological distress, primarily due to fears of anaphylaxis. Only 20% of respondents had been screened for anxiety and about 35% of caregivers worried the condition could lead to their child being bullied.
Full Story: HealthDay News (10/4) 
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Defuse politics at work with a little help from Aristotle

October 7, 2024

Today's divisive political environment could use a dose of eunoia, a concept outlining goodwill between a speaker and their audience that dates back to Aristotle, write Jamie Woolf and Christopher Bell, founder and president of Creative Partners, respectively. "Eunoia isn't about avoiding difficult conversations or sanitizing one's views; it's about approaching contentious discussions with a mindset grounded in mutual respect and empathy," they write.
Full Story: SmartBrief/Leadership (10/4)
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USDA eases school meal rules post-Hurricane Helene

October 3, 2024

The USDA has approved waivers for South Carolina schools affected by Hurricane Helene to allow flexibility in meal patterns for the National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs. The waivers are in effect through Oct. 14.
Full Story: WIS-TV (Columbia, S.C.) (10/2) 
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N.H. to rollout herb gardens, hydroponic farms in schools

October 3, 2024

New Hampshire schools -- especially those in districts that participate in the National School Lunch Program -- will receive 1,200 mini herb gardens and over a dozen hydroponic farms to introduce students to growing fresh food. Funded by $12,000 in federal pandemic relief money, these hands-on tools aim to enhance food service programs and teach about agriculture.
Full Story: New Hampshire Bulletin (Concord) (10/2) 
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It's your moment to shine—submit a proposal for ANC25

October 3, 2024

We're calling for proposals! SNA's Annual National Conference (ANC25) is coming to San Antonio, Texas, and we're inviting YOU to submit an education session proposal that will inspire and empower school nutrition professionals nationwide. The ANC25 theme, "It's Your Moment," celebrates the incredible resilience, vision and passion of school nutrition experts like you. It's a chance to share your journey, highlight best practices and be a driving force in shaping the future of school meals. Proposals are due by Nov. 6. Learn more.
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How are states managing costs of universal school meals?

October 4, 2024

The implementation of universal school meals in eight states, including Vermont, has led to increased participation in school breakfast and lunch programs—reducing hunger and improving student engagement. While some states face higher-than-expected costs, Vermont is managing costs by signing more schools up for federal reimbursement programs, according to Rosie Krueger, the state's director of child nutrition programs.
Full Story: Chalkbeat (10/3)
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Arrr you ready for NSLW24?

October 4, 2024

Chart your course for NSLW24! With National School Lunch Week (NSLW24) just around the corner, it’s time to make sure you have everything you need to plan an unforgettable celebration. Don’t worry, SNA has all the resources you need to create a week full of fun, adventure and delicious school meals! Learn more, and you’ll be all set to make NSLW24 a success!
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Pa. museum exhibit explores history of school lunch

October 1, 2024

A new exhibit at the Science History Institute in Philadelphia highlights the evolution of school lunch in America -- focusing on its social and nutritional impact. The exhibit emphasizes the contributions of women scientists and explores how school lunches have shaped education and public health.
Full Story: Chalkbeat/Philadelphia (9/30) 
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Experience the best of ANC24 with new webinar series

October 1, 2024

Did you miss out on SNA's Annual National Conference (ANC24) in Boston? Don't worry—we've got you covered! Whether you couldn't attend or want to revisit the most popular education sessions, the Best of ANC24 Webinar Series brings the top-rated presentations directly to you. This webinar series features three must-watch sessions, offering insights into the latest in school nutrition—covering everything from AI innovation to team wellness strategies. Whether you're looking to enhance your nutrition program or improve team performance, these sessions will leave you with actionable takeaways. Learn more and register.
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Surveys: US consumers lack confidence in food safety

September 25, 2024

American confidence in food safety has hit an all-time low, according to recent Gallup and IFIC surveys. Gallup reports that 28% of respondents have little confidence in the safety of the food supply and 14% have none. Confidence is particularly low among parents of young children and those with lower incomes and education levels. The increase in food recalls, with 578 products recalled in the first half of 2024, has significantly impacted public trust.
Full Story: Food Processing (9/9), Food Safety News (9/20) 
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Registered dietitian: Sparkling water is just as hydrating

September 25, 2024

Sparkling water -- water that is infused with carbon dioxide to make it fizzy -- is equally as hydrating as plain, still water, experts say. The differences come down to personal preference with the most appealing beverage likely to promote hydration, although for some the carbonation may cause bloating and gas, according to registered dietitian and spokeswoman for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Grace Derocha. Also, choose sparkling waters without added sugars, Derocha said.
Full Story: The Washington Post (9/22) 
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N.M. schools embrace fresh meals

September 25, 2024

New Mexico's universal school meals program emphasizes fresh and locally sourced foods, with districts adjusting to new guidelines. Despite initial concerns, schools are successfully integrating local produce into meals to enhance students' nutrition and engagement.
Full Story: Santa Fe New Mexican (9/24) 
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Registered dietitian: Sparkling water is just as hydrating

September 25, 2024

Sparkling water -- water that is infused with carbon dioxide to make it fizzy -- is equally as hydrating as plain, still water, experts say. The differences come down to personal preference with the most appealing beverage likely to promote hydration, although for some the carbonation may cause bloating and gas, according to registered dietitian and spokeswoman for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Grace Derocha. Also, choose sparkling waters without added sugars, Derocha said.
Full Story: The Washington Post (9/22)
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Read SN magazine: New Age Tech—It's on the Menu

September 25, 2024

You know better than anybody that your school cafeteria is more than just a place where students gather to eat—it's practically a community hub within your school, where students nourish their bodies so they're able to learn, where students can bond over trying new foods and where some of the best school memories are formed. So, is it any wonder you're always aiming to be more innovative? The September/October 2024 issue of School Nutrition explores all the ways the school foodservice programs of today are changing and progressing, including a few approaches you might not have considered before. Read the issue for all the details and much more.
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Md. district boosts sourcing of local produce

September 23, 2024

Frederick County Public Schools in Maryland accepted bids from two local farms to supply fresh produce for the upcoming school year. This initiative aims to support students' healthy eating habits while promoting partnerships with local farmers.

Full Story: The Frederick News-Post (Md.) (9/21) 
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Mich. schools connect students with local farms

September 23, 2024

A USDA-funded program linked 46 Michigan schools with 25 small farms to promote locally grown produce in school meals. The initiative encouraged over 10,000 students to try fresh fruits and vegetables while supporting farmers and fostering healthier eating habits.
Full Story: The Detroit News (9/22) 
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Call for 2025 SNA election nominations

September 23, 2024

Ready to be a leader at SNA? Are you looking for exciting opportunities to grow professionally, bring a fresh perspective to national issues, and network with other school nutrition professionals? Or do you know someone with strong leadership skills, professional achievements, and a record of active participation in their state association or SNA? If so, nominate someone (or yourself) today! Learn more.


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SNA's Public Policy & Legislation Chair testifies at Senate Hearing on school meals

September 24, 2024

Last week, Evora Nichole Taylor, SNA's Public Policy and Legislation Committee Chair, testified before a Senate Subcommittee, urging members of Congress to support free, healthy school meals for all students and increase federal reimbursement rates to help school meal programs manage high costs. Learn more, including how SNA members can join Taylor in calling on Congress to act in support of school meals.
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Fla. after-school meal program fuels students

September 24, 2024

A new after-school meal program by Waller Elementary School in Florida's Bay District Schools provides balanced meals for students attending after-school activities. Each meal includes milk, grain, vegetables, fruit and a meat or meat alternative to support students' physical and mental performance, according to Jennifer Lathem-Walters, the district's director of food service.
Full Story: WMBB-TV (Panama City, Fla.) (9/23) 
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USDA supports farm-to-school meal programs

September 24, 2024

The USDA is celebrating healthy, locally grown foods in schools by supporting programs that connect schools and local producers with the intention of benefiting both students with nutritious meals and farmers with a steady market. The farm-to-school initiative includes a $22 million investment in Texas to help schools buy local foods and a grant for the Houston Independent School District to fund school gardens and food education.
Full Story: KTRK-TV (Houston)
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More free school meals urged at Senate hearing

September 19, 2024

Legislators and advocates campaigned for members of the US Senate Agriculture subcommittee to support the continuation and expansion of free and reduced-cost school meals during a hearing on Wednesday. Topics of legislation at various stages of progress include revising the Community Eligibility Provision, cutting down on requirements that students prove their eligibility and a higher priority on the use of food produced in the US.
 Full Story: South Dakota Searchlight (Pierre) (9/18) 
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Senators: USDA should end school meal transaction fees

September 19, 2024

Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., and six other Democratic senators sent a letter to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack advocating for a ban on transaction fees charged to student meal accounts, which they classify as "exorbitant," by ending an exemption that has allowed them to charge the fees since 2014. A School Nutrition Association report states that lunch prices average $2.83 in elementary school, $3 in middle school and $3.05 in high school for lunches, and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau reports some families that qualify for reduced rates end up spending 60 cents of every dollar on fees.
Full Story: NBC News (9/19) 
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USDA grants support school nutrition training

September 18, 2024

The USDA awarded $8.6 million to 11 states, including Massachusetts, to train school nutrition professionals on updated nutrition standards. Massachusetts will use the funds for culinary training and mentoring programs to enhance school meal offerings and promote healthier food options.
Full Story: WWLP-TV (Springfield, Mass.) (9/17) 
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7 carbs that offer a healthful dose of fiber

September 18, 2024

Getting adequate dietary fiber may lower diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancer risks, and to help boost fiber intake, registered dietitians offer seven carbohydrates with more fiber per serving than brown rice, including buckwheat, whole-wheat pastas, green peas and sweet potatoes. "There are plenty of options to increase fiber intake," says registered dietitian nutritionist Victoria Whittington. "After all, eating more fiber doesn't have to be boring!"
Full Story: EatingWell (9/15) 
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Accelerate your leadership journey at WIL2024

September 18, 2024

At the Women in Leadership Institute™ 2024 (WIL 2024) master authentic connection, effective communication, and how to foster a collaborative culture. Discover how you can transform your leadership journey and make a lasting impact. REGISTER NOW!
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Scholarships available for SNIC25—Apply now!

September 18, 2024

Planning to attend SNA's School Nutrition Industry Conference (SNIC25) but concerned about the costs? The School Nutrition Foundation (SNF) is here to help with scholarships designed to support SNA members on their journey to SNIC25, Jan. 19 to 21, 2025 in Phoenix, Ariz. SNF is offering two scholarship options to eligible members, in the amounts of $1,000 or $1,400 to help offset the costs of attending. Whether you're a first-time attendee or a returning participant, there's a scholarship opportunity for you! Learn more—the application deadline is Friday, Oct. 18.
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Child Poverty Article

September 16, 2024

Education Week (9/12) 
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SNA signs on as supporter of School Hunger Elimination Act

September 16, 204

Recently, SNA signed on as a supporter of the School Hunger Elimination Act, first introduced during the 117th Congress by Representative Jahana Hayes, D-Conn. The bill would expand access to free or reduced-price school meals by directly certifying school-age children receiving Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). In the Senate, the School Hunger Elimination Act is included in S.4525, introduced by Sen. Bob Casey, D-Pa., and Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa. Learn more.
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Sen. Gillibrand proposes universal school meals in N.Y.

September 13, 2024

US Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., has introduced a bill to provide free breakfast, lunch and dinner to all students across New York state, regardless of family income. The Universal School Meals Program Act aims to reduce stigma, expand summer meal access and eliminate school meal debt. "Our kids are our future, and they deserve every opportunity to succeed," said Sen. Gillibrand. Full Story: WENY-TV (N.Y.) (9/12)
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School district in Minn. addresses food allergy safety

September 13, 2024

Anoka-Hennepin Schools has implemented strict measures to avoid cross-contamination to ensure that students with food allergies feel included and safe. These measures include using separate containers, clean cutting boards and dedicated ovens when available, shared Noah Atlas, the district's child nutrition director. The district also emphasizes using whole ingredients to avoid allergens such as soy and wheat. Full Story: CCX Media (Brooklyn Park, Minn.) (9/12)
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Promo Calenda

September 13, 2024

SNA's 2024-25 Promo Calendar is out now! This year's calendar is filled with month-long, weeklong and single-day holidays and events to help you brighten your school meal program. Download the Calendar today and get ready for a school year filled with cafeteria celebrations!
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Report: Families face high school meal payment fees

September 13, 2024

A report by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau reveals that families face high fees when adding money to school lunch accounts, despite federal mandates for fee-free options. Advocates urge greater transparency and better negotiation of payment processing contracts to reduce burdens on low-income families. Full Story: The Associated Press (9/11)
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Calif. bill on food dye in schools awaits gov's signature

September 13, 2024

California Gov. Gavin Newsom is considering a bill that would ban six artificial food dyes from school meals, with regulations set to begin in 2027 if signed. The bill aims to promote healthier options, citing research that links these dyes to hyperactivity and other neurobehavioral effects in children. Full Story: KFMB-TV (San Diego) (9/11)
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Membership Forward: Grow Together!

September 13, 2024

Imagine the impact you can make by bringing someone new to SNA. Our new Membership Forward campaign is your chance to make a significant contribution while also showing support for school nutrition and your professional association. It’s easy to help! Simply recruit at least one new member by May 31, 2025, to be eligible for a random prize drawing. Get the details here, and happy recruiting! 
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Minn. universal school meal program benefits students

September 10, 2024

The statewide universal school meals program in Minnesota has shown significant benefits, including reduced stigma, increased attendance and better academic outcomes. The program's costs have exceeded projections, highlighting the need for sustainable financial strategies such as federal aid and efficient state funding to maintain these kinds of programs.
Full Story: Minnesota Public Radio (9/9) 
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Last call: 2025 FAME Award Nominations close this week!

September 10, 2024

Don't miss out! Nominate a school nutrition professional for the 2025 Foodservice Achievement Management Excellence (FAME) Awards, presented by Basic American Foods (BAF). Review the nomination criteria and FAQs for each of the four categories to determine which award best suits your nominee. Nominate an SNA member making a positive impact within the world of school nutrition—nominations close on Sept. 13.
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Bill seeks to auto-enroll students in free school lunches

September 9, 2024

Rep. Jahana Hayes, D-Conn., aims to simplify access to free school lunches for eligible students by introducing a federal bill that would auto-enroll children in the National School Lunch Program if they receive benefits from Medicaid or SNAP. The proposed School Hunger Elimination Act seeks to eliminate additional application steps for already stressed families, according to Rep. Hayes.
Full Story: WJW-TV (Cleveland) (9/6) 
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SN Plus: A Recipe for Building Culinary Competencies

September 5, 2024

In A Recipe for Building Culinary Competencies, a new SN Plus article, you'll explore how a holistic approach to culinary training can empower your staff to create delicious, nutritious meals that students love. From mastering knife skills and batch cooking techniques to embracing global cuisines and fresh, locally sourced ingredients, this article breaks down the strategies for success. School Nutrition thanks Kellanova for its generous support in making this article available.
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Caesar salad boosts Md. district's school meal participation

September 4, 2024

Baltimore City Public Schools in Maryland saw a surprising rise in lunch participation last year, thanks to the popularity of chicken Caesar salads, which added 1,300 meals weekly. Officials hope the salad and new menu items will continue to increase student engagement in the district's free meal program.
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NSLW24 resources have weighed anchor!

September 4, 2024

Ahoy, SNA Members! National School Lunch Week (NSLW24) resources are here. NSLW24 is just over the horizon, and this year’s theme, “School Lunch Pirates: Find Your Treasure!” is bound to make waves in your schools! Look for:

·  NSLW24 Toolkit: Exclusively for SNA members, this treasure trove of tips and tools will guide you seamlessly through the week’s
festivities.
·  Activity Guide & Coloring Pages: Prepare to unleash your students’ creativity during National School Lunch Week 2024 with these printable treasure maps and coloring pages, available in English and Spanish (coming soon).
·  Social Media Kit: It includes seven ready-to-use social media posts with captions in both English and Spanish.
View all the available NSLW24 resources and set sail for an awesome celebration!
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Ind. schools introduce global lunch options

September 4, 2024

Hamilton Southeastern School District in Indiana is enhancing its lunch program by offering diverse global meals like ramen and tikka masala to introduce students to new cultures and flavors. This school nutrition initiative supports healthy eating habits and encourages students to try nutritious, culturally diverse foods. Full Story: WRTV-TV (Indianapolis) (8/30) 
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Mass. maintains universal school meal program

August 30, 2024

Massachusetts has permanently implemented universal school meals, which, according to data from Gov. Maura Healey's office, increased student participation in school breakfast and lunch programs. The Healthy School Meals for All initiative, supported by state and federal funding, also boosts the use of locally sourced ingredients.
Full Story: WBTS-TV (Boston) (8/27) 

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SNA Podcast: Season Two

August 29, 2024

Season Two of SNA's Podcast, "School Food for Thought" is now available. Dive into the heart of school nutrition, exploring innovative ideas, inspiring stories and practical tips from the leaders who make it all happen. From advocacy and behind-the-scenes roles to creative culinary innovations and sustainability efforts, Season Two is packed with engaging conversations that will empower and inspire. Start listening on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or on the SNA
 More +

Ala. kindergartners learn colors with fresh produce

August 29, 2024

Kindergartners at Enterprise City Schools in Alabama are learning their colors through a weeklong program that pairs fruits with each color, culminating in a "Rainbow Day" fruit tray. The initiative, supported by the USDA's Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Program Grant, promotes color recognition and introduces students to healthy eating habits, according to Stephanie Dillard, the district's child nutrition director and president-elect of the School Nutrition Association.
Full Story: WTVY-TV (Dothan, Ala.) (8/27) 
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Wis. school pilots scratch-cooked school meals

August 29, 2024

Nuestro Mundo Community School in Wisconsin's Madison Metropolitan School District has launched a scratch-cooking pilot program, offering fresh, locally sourced meals that have increased student participation and reduced food waste. The school is the first in the district to trial the program, which aims to improve the quality of school meals and set a new standard across the district.
Full Story: Channel 3000 (Madison, Wis.) (8/28) 
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New SNA federal regulations resource

August 28, 2024

Stay informed on the ever-evolving landscape of school nutrition regulations with SNA's new resource. Visit the Federal Regulations page on the SNA Action Network to find: key regulations; SNA comment letters; and a place to share your feedback on the most recent updated nutrition standards. Visit other informative pages including opportunities to participate in grassroots campaigns.
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Tenn. tests permitting schools to offer whole milk

August 27, 2024

Tennessee is exploring the provision of whole milk in schools under a new state law, despite federal restrictions. The state education department's guidance allows whole milk to be offered for free but with strict limitations.
Full Story: Lancaster Farming (Pa.) (8/25) 
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Go "Back to School" with free LEAD to Succeed™ training

August 27, 2024

Learning isn't just for the kids! As the new school year gets underway, it's the perfect time for you to go "back to school" too with the School Nutrition Foundation's LEAD to Succeed™ training. It is designed specifically for school nutrition professionals and can be accessed at no cost through SNA's Training Zone by both members and non-members. Learn more.
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Register for Meeting 6 of the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee

August 26, 2024

Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025-2030

Registration Now Open: Meeting 6 of the 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee

Register to Attend Virtually

You can now register to virtually attend Meeting 6 of the 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee (Committee), which will be livestreamed on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ET and Thursday, September 26, 2024, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. ET. Convened jointly by the U.S. Departments of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Agriculture (USDA), the Committee will hear updates from each subcommittee and discuss progress made since Meeting 5. Topics will include evidence review and synthesis, draft conclusion statements, and plans to finalize the Committee’s work, including its Scientific Report.


HHS and USDA encourage the public to participate in the process by registering in advance to view the livestream. A recorded version will also be posted on the Committee Meetings page after the meeting. Past meeting materials and recordings for Meetings 1 through 5 can be found on the Committee Meetings page now.

SAVE-THE-DATE: SCIENTIFIC REPORT MEETING

The 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee will hold its seventh and final virtual meeting on October 21-22, 2024. During this meeting, the Committee will provide an overview and discuss the scientific findings and advice it plans to include in its Scientific Report before the report is submitted to HHS and USDA. Information on how to register for the meeting and the meeting agenda will be provided closer to the meeting date.
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Calif. school nutrition pros receive culinary training

August 26, 2024

Training at the Culinary Institute of America in Napa, Calif., has helped the Fresno Unified School District elevate its menus to include chana masala, street tacos and barbecued tofu, shared Amanda Harvey, director of nutrition services for the district. "They learned how to utilize knives, how to prep, how to plan, how to really efficiently run their kitchens," added Harvey, who notes a grant from the California Department of Education funded the hands-on training for 70 of the more than 500 nutrition services employees.
Full Story: KSEE-TV/KGPE-TV (Fresno, Calif.) (8/22) 
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How to defuse resentment on your team

August 26, 2024

Snarky comments and sarcasm can be signs that your team is struggling with resentment rather than just a general attitude problem, according to Anthony Klotz, associate professor of organizational behavior at the UCL School of Management in UK. Klotz recommends talking to team members one-on-one, shaking up routines and encouraging team members to speak to leadership if their gripe is with organizational policies.
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NSLW24 resources have weighed anchor!

August 26, 2024

Ahoy, SNA Members! National School Lunch Week (NSLW24) resources are here. NSLW24 is just over the horizon, and this year’s theme, “School Lunch Pirates: Find Your Treasure!” is bound to make waves in your schools! Look for:

  • NSLW24 Toolkit: Exclusively for SNA members, this treasure trove of tips and tools will guide you seamlessly through the week’s festivities.
  • Activity Guide & Coloring Pages: Prepare to unleash your students’ creativity during National School Lunch Week 2024 with these printable treasure maps and coloring pages, available in English and Spanish (coming soon).
  • Social Media Kit: It includes seven ready-to-use social media posts with captions in both English and Spanish.
View all the available NSLW24 resources and set sail for an awesome celebration!
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Have cafeteria celebrations every day with SNA's new Promo Calendar

August 23, 2024

SNA's 2024-25 Promo Calendar is out now! This year's calendar is filled with month-long, weeklong and single-day holidays and events to help you brighten your school meal program. Download the Calendar today and get ready for a school year filled with cafeteria celebrations!
 More +

USDA tightens school nutrition rules

August 23, 2024

Under new USDA guidelines, schools that participate in the National School Lunch Program must reduce added sugars and salt in meals starting next school year. This upcoming school year serves as a transition period for school nutrition programs to adjust to these changes, with full implementation expected by 2027. Full Story: KNXV-TV (Phoenix) (8/22)
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Nine states retain universal school lunches

August 22, 2024

This year, nine states will continue offering free universal school lunches -- a decline from last year -- as Nevada ends its program due to a veto by Gov. Joe Lombardo. The federal waivers that initially funded these meals during the pandemic has largely ended, leaving states to decide whether to continue funding the initiative independently. Full Story: KGTV-TV (San Diego) (8/20)
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SN Plus: From lunchroom to legislation

August 21, 2024

Advocacy is a masterful tool for change, especially when it comes to programs that involve school nutrition operations and standards. SNA plays a pivotal role in advocating for these programs, ensuring that policies and regulations support the work being done in schools across the country. In the new SN Plus, "From Lunchroom to Legislation," we explore the importance of "boots on the ground" advocacy and how school nutrition professionals can make their voices heard on Capitol Hill and beyond. School Nutrition thanks AccuTemp for its generous support in making this article available.
 More +

Why Nev. should establish universal school lunches

August 20, 2024

Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo should reconsider his opposition to efforts in the state legislature to authorize universal lunches for students in the state to help students learn more effectively amid ongoing economic challenges, the Editorial Board of the Las Vegas Sun writes. "By investing in universal free lunch, we are not just feeding children; we are nourishing the future of our society," the Editorial Board writes.
Full Story: Las Vegas Sun (8/20) 
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FDA begins next phase of dietary sodium reduction efforts

August 19, 2024

The FDA announced it is starting Phase II of its effort to reduce sodium content in packaged and prepared foods, as well as school lunches, aiming to reduce intake to 2,750 milligrams. Current guidelines recommend 2,300 mg or about 1 teaspoon daily, but the FDA estimates, on average, most people are consuming 3,400 mg each day. "Reducing sodium in the food supply has the potential to be one of the most important public health initiatives in a generation," says Jim Jones, FDA deputy commissioner for human foods.
Full Story: HealthDay News (8/15) 
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Why leaders should commit to learn like Lincoln

August 19, 2024

President Abraham Lincoln had a hardscrabble beginning in life, but Harvard Business School professor and historian Nancy Koehn says he was determined to succeed, so even though he had little formal schooling, he became a lifelong learner, teaching himself everything from geometry to the law, a habit leaders should emulate. "[W]hen you don't know something, and you believe it's critical to your mission or critical to the next place you need to reach on your journey, you can teach yourself those things," Koehn says.
 More +

NSLW24 resources have weighed anchor!

August 19, 2024

Ahoy, SNA Members! National School Lunch Week (NSLW24) resources are here. NSLW24 is just over the horizon, and this year’s theme, “School Lunch Pirates: Find Your Treasure!” is bound to make waves in your schools! SNA has got you covered with all the treasure you need to plan the best NSLW24 ever! View all the available NSLW24 resources here.
 More +

What the 5-20 rule means when reading nutrition labels

August 16, 2024

To take some of the guesswork out of reading nutrition labels, health experts recommend using the 5-20 rule, which means if the daily value listed for a particular nutrient on the label is 5% or less, that is considered low and 20% or more is considered high. Whether you should be getting a low or high amount of that particular nutrient depends on your individual dietary needs, experts say, adding to also read the ingredient list and if you can't pronounce an ingredient, you may not want to eat it.
Full Story: WBAY-TV (Green Bay, Wis.) (8/12) 
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Provide guidance, boundaries to help your team grow

August 16, 2024

Leaders can help their direct reports reach their full potential by coaching them, helping them turn mistakes into lessons and being clear about their tasks and performance standards, writes executive coach John Baldoni. "Managers must assess each employee's capabilities and limitations. Some team members must be kept on a short leash, while leaders can give others more autonomy," Baldoni writes.
Full Story: SmartBrief/Leadership (8/14)
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Upcoming SNA webinar: Engage students at all levels

August 16, 2024

Looking to elevate your school nutrition programs and engage students at all levels to increase participation? Register today for the webinar, "The Student Voice: Nut-thing Compares" on Aug. 21 at 3:00 pm ET. Join us for this interactive session exploring best practices and strategies to involve teachers, families, and students in your school nutrition programs. Discover the power of peanuts with sustainable nutrition, trendy recipes, and research-based tips for safely adding peanuts to the menu to create an inclusive and creative cafeteria experience. From creating signs to elaborate taste tests, learn from our experienced panel how to grab the students' attention while not breaking the bank.
 More +

Study: Plant-based fats tied to lower mortality risks

August 15, 2024

People who got the most dietary fat from plant sources, compared with animal sources, had a decreased risk of mortality, including from heart disease, according to a study in JAMA Internal Medicine. Researchers tracked more than 407,000 people over 24 years and found that higher levels of animal-based fats were linked to increased risks of overall and cardiovascular disease mortality.

 Full Story: HealthDay News (8/12)
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Many types of squash offer healthful benefits

August 15, 2024

Zucchini squash is abundant in the summer, while other squash varieties like pumpkin, acorn, spaghetti and butternut are plentiful in the fall and winter, and registered dietitians say squash in general is a healthful fruit containing antioxidants, fiber, potassium, magnesium, and vitamins C, A and B. While each type has its own unique nutritional profile and healthful benefits, "improved digestion is one short-term change someone might see when incorporating squash into the diet due to its high-fiber content," says RDN Maggie Michalczyk, adding that "the high-fiber content ... also contributes to feelings of fullness."
 Full Story: Parade (8/11) 
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Nutrition & Wellness Corn is a nutritious, versatile vegetable, RDs say

August 15, 2024

Corn is unique in that it is considered both a grain and a vegetable, and registered dietitians extol the nutritional virtues of corn eaten as a vegetable. Corn contains the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, is a source of plant protein and fiber, and while fresh corn on the cob may be sweeter and crunchier than canned or frozen, RD Maya Vadiveloo says "if you can't shop frequently, frozen vegetables are fantastic, and frozen corn is as nutrient-dense as what you can get at the farmers market and much more affordable."

 More +

Have cafeteria celebrations every day with SNA's new Promo Calendar

August 14, 2024

SNA's 2024-25 Promo Calendar is out now! This year's calendar is filled with month-long, weeklong and single-day holidays and events to help you brighten your school meal program. Download the Calendar today and get ready for a school year filled with cafeteria celebrations!
 More +

Upcoming SNA webinar: Engage students at all levels

August 12, 2024

Looking to elevate your school nutrition programs and engage students at all levels to increase participation? Register today for the webinar, "The Student Voice: Nut-thing Compares" on Aug. 21 at 3:00 pm ET. Join us for this interactive session exploring best practices and strategies to involve teachers, families, and students in your school nutrition programs. Discover the power of peanuts with sustainable nutrition, trendy recipes, and research-based tips for safely adding peanuts to the menu to create an inclusive and creative cafeteria experience. From creating signs to elaborate taste tests, learn from our experienced panel how to grab the students' attention while not breaking the bank.
 More +

SNF receives award for LEAD to Succeed™

August 9, 2024

The School Nutrition Foundation (SNF) has been recognized as a Power of Associations Gold Award winner by the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) for its successful LEAD to Succeed™ initiative. The awards celebrate and recognize the invaluable contributions that associations make to America and the world. LEAD to Succeed™ provides free workforce tools and training modules developed specifically for school nutrition professionals seeking to Learn, Educate, Advance and Develop in the school nutrition field. Learn more.
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SNA's Food Allergy Resource Center

August 8, 2024

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.
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Why leaders must set an example for their teams

August 7, 2024

Leaders must educate themselves about what drives their business and also be aware of the challenges their teams will face and do all they can to help them succeed and build trust by being "down to earth and approachable," says Jeff Weinstein, co-founder and CEO of TranscendAP. "Set an example by the actions and work ethic you have for the business ... be a role model by demonstrating effort, workmanship and respect you have for others," Weinstein says.

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Multiple types of melons are hydrating, healthful

August 7, 2024

While there are dozens of varieties of melons grown and consumed globally, watermelon, cantaloupe and honeydew melons are the most commonly consumed in the US, according to registered dietitian Anthea Levi, who says each type has its own unique nutritional profile. Most melons contain healthful antioxidants, vitamin C and are hydrating, and Levi says that "adding these versatile fruits to your diet can help you stay well-nourished and may even lower your risk of developing chronic conditions over time."

Full Story: Health (8/5) 
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TikTok facing child privacy lawsuit filed by Justice Dept.

August 6, 2024

The Justice Department has filed a lawsuit accusing TikTok of violating the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act by collecting data from children without parental consent. TikTok disputes the allegations and says it has safeguards and features in place to protect minors on the platform.

Full Story: Mashable (8/2) 
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As a leader, your only competition is yourself

August 5, 2024

Ranking ourselves in terms of how we compare to our peers -- or especially those above us -- can undercut our confidence and lead to imposter syndrome, writes management consultant Marc Cugnon, who recommends a mindset change: The only person you're competing with is yourself. "When that light bulb went off in my head [...] I suddenly found myself with a new reserve of mental energy, which I was able to devote to helping others shine," Cugnon writes.

Full Story: SmartBrief/Leadership (8/2) 
 More +

SN Plus: From lunchroom to legislation

August 5, 2024

Advocacy is a masterful tool for change, especially when it comes to programs that involve school nutrition operations and standards. SNA plays a pivotal role in advocating for these programs, ensuring that policies and regulations support the work being done in schools across the country. In the new SN Plus, "From Lunchroom to Legislation," we explore the importance of "boots on the ground" advocacy and how school nutrition professionals can make their voices heard on Capitol Hill and beyond. School Nutrition thanks AccuTemp for its generous support in making this article available.
 More +

Utah initiative tackles students' school meal debt

August 2, 2024

Efforts by D.J. Bracken, a basketball coach at Hunter High School in Utah's Granite School District, to eliminate the state's $2.8-million school lunch debt have led to the creation of a foundation. The initiative has already cleared debts for two schools and aims to assist two more by the end of the summer.

Full Story: KSL-AM/FM (Salt Lake City) (8/1) 
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Mich. sees success with universal school meals program

August 2, 2024

Michigan's universal school meals program has increased the number of students eating school breakfasts and lunches. The program, which is set to continue next school year with $200 million in state funding, aims to ensure all students have access to nutritious meals.

 More +

Upcoming SNA webinar: Engage students at all levels

August 1, 2024

Looking to elevate your school nutrition programs and engage students at all levels to increase participation? Register today for the webinar, "The Student Voice: Nut-thing Compares" on Aug. 21 at 3:00 pm ET. Join us for this interactive session exploring best practices and strategies to involve teachers, families, and students in your school nutrition programs. Discover the power of peanuts with sustainable nutrition, trendy recipes, and research-based tips for safely adding peanuts to the menu to create an inclusive and creative cafeteria experience. From creating signs to elaborate taste tests, learn from our experienced panel how to grab the students' attention while not breaking the bank.
 More +

SNA Podcast: Season Two

July 29, 2024

Season Two of SNA's Podcast, "School Food for Thought" is now available. Dive into the heart of school nutrition, exploring innovative ideas, inspiring stories and practical tips from the leaders who make it all happen. From advocacy and behind-the-scenes roles to creative culinary innovations and sustainability efforts, Season Two is packed with engaging conversations that will empower and inspire. Start listening on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or on the SNA website.
 More +

S.C. expands access to free school meals

July 29, 2024

A new South Carolina law now provides free meals to more students, eliminating reduced-price payments for school breakfasts and lunches. This initiative aims to alleviate food insecurity and ensure that all students have access to nutritious meals. Full Story: WIS-TV (Columbia, S.C.) (7/26)
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Ariz. school nutrition director to lead SNA

July 29, 2024

Shannon Gleave, director of food and nutrition for the Glendale Elementary School District in Arizona, was named president of the School Nutrition Association for 2024-25. Gleave shared that she aims to advocate for universal school meal service and provide valuable growth opportunities for SNA's members. Full Story: The Glendale Star (Ariz.) (7/26)
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Both cantaloupe, honeydew are nutritional winners

July 26, 2024

Registered dietitian Samantha Cassetty compares the nutritional profiles of cantaloupe and honeydew, two melons that are both hydrating and in abundant supply during the summer months. Cantaloupe is a good way to get antioxidant vitamins A and C, while honeydew provides healthful potassium, but Cassetty says both are nutritional winners. "Given the role of variety in your diet, I'd encourage you to eat honeydew and cantaloupe, as well as other types of melon, such as watermelon," Cassetty says.
 Full Story: Today (7/22) 
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Peanut Power! Engaging Your Community in School Nutrition

July 26, 2024

The Student Voice: Nut-thing Compares
By SNA Professional Development Team

Looking to elevate your school nutrition programs and engage students at all levels to increase participation?  Some may think this is a hard nut to crack, but the student voice can easily become the foundation of your programs.

Join us for the webinar, “The Student Voice: Nut-thing Compares.”

In this interactive session, you’ll:
  •  Explore best practices and strategies to involve teachers, families and students in your school nutrition programs.
  •  Discover the power of peanuts with sustainable nutrition, trendy recipes and research-based tips for safely adding peanuts to the menu to create an inclusive and creative cafeteria experience.
  •  Learn from our experienced panel on how to grab students’ attention while not breaking the bank.
Date: August 21
Time: 3:00 pm ET

Meet the Presenters 

  • Cindy Kanarek Culver, MS, RDN, LD: Director of School Nutrition at Marietta City School, Ga.
  • Markita Lewis, MS, RD: Marketing and Communications Manager at the National Peanut Board
  • Tarrah Westercamp, MS, RDN, SNS: Owner and Chief Executive Officer of Westercamp Consulting, LLC
  • Stephen O’Brien: Director of Strategic Partnerships and Policy at the New York City Department of Education, Office of Food and Nutrition Services

Earning CEUs 

  • SNA CEUs: 1.0
  • Key Area 1000: Nutrition
  • Key Topic 1100: Special Diets, Including Food Allergies
  • Subtopic 1160: Food Allergy
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8 ways leaders can welcome change and use it to succeed

July 26, 2024

When managing change in an organization, leaders must adopt a flexible mindset that is open to learning from failure and adapting to new situations to lead their teams through the uncertainty, writes Karen Carey, a leadership coach and founder of Global Advisory Associates Ltd. "As leaders learn to surf the waves of change, they not only enhance their capabilities but also inspire and empower those around them to navigate transitions with resilience and agility," Carey writes.
Full Story: SmartBrief/Leadership (7/24) 
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RD looks at caffeine intake timing, impact on health

July 25, 2024

When you consume coffee or caffeinated beverages, it can have an impact on blood sugar, hormones such as cortisol, energy levels and sleep quality, according to registered dietitian Jillian Kubala, who reviews the impact of caffeine intake at various times throughout the day. While Kubala says "no solid scientific evidence indicates a 'best time' to drink coffee," she adds "for people with high blood sugar levels and those under stress, it may be best to delay your morning coffee until after you've had a nutritious, protein-rich meal, which can help balance blood sugar and cortisol levels." Full Story: Health (7/22) 
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SNA's podcast: Season Two is now streaming!

July 23, 2024

Season Two of "School Food for Thought" is out now! Join us as we dive into the heart of school nutrition, exploring innovative ideas, inspiring stories and practical tips from the leaders who make it all happen. From advocacy and behind-the-scenes roles to creative culinary innovations and sustainability efforts, Season Two is packed with engaging conversations that will empower and inspire. Tune in and discover how we're shaping the future of school meals, one episode at a time!
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SN magazine: July/August 2024 -- Stepping up and stepping out of one's comfort zone

July 22, 2024

It's easy to understand why so many people like to stay in their comfort zones. It's safe and predictable. It's easier to control. But it's also very limiting. Trying something new is crucial to growth and innovation, whether that means taking on a new position or serving something new on the breakfast menu that you've never served before. In SN's July/August issue, find valuable insights about stepping up and stepping out of your comfort zone.
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Turn insights into organizational success

July 22, 2024

Gain research-backed insights that you can immediately put to work in your career, teams, and organization. In this free eBook from Stanford Graduate School of Business Executive Education, you'll tap into faculty expertise that helps you transform your leadership and your organization. Get the free eBook →
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Lemon water healthful way to stay hydrated, RDN says

July 22, 2024

Drinking water with added lemon juice is a trendy and healthful way to stay hydrated during hot, summer days, according to registered dietitian nutritionist and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Debbie Petitpain, who adds the convenient beverage offers vitamin C and antioxidants to help support digestion. "Some people get really fatigued from drinking plain water, some people even say it's simply physically hard to swallow plain water, and by adding a little bit of flavoring to it, like lemon, it makes it easier for them to drink," Petitpain says. Full Story: U.S. News & World Report (7/18) 
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Share your recipes

July 19, 2024

SNA operator members, we want to share your beloved and favorite school recipes in our K-12 Recipe Library. Help us fill it with delicious and nutritious recipes from school nutrition professionals like you. Next step -- learn more about how to submit a recipe and become a part of the growing SNA Recipe Library.
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Mich. funds free school meals for all students

July 19, 2024

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has approved $200 million to provide free breakfast and lunch for all students. This initiative aims to improve student participation, diet quality and food security statewide, and is expected to save families $850 per year per child. Full Story: WILX-TV (Lansing/Jackson, Mich.)
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Mark your calendar for ANC 2025

July 18, 2024

Feeling energized from #ANC24? "It's Your Moment" is the theme for next year's ANC in San Antonio, Texas -- July 13 to 15, 2025 -- and we hope you'll join in the conversation to elevate school nutrition. Mark your calendar now and see you in San Antonio.
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Don't solve team problems, coach them to solve their own

July 17, 2024

Your team doesn't want you to solve their problems; they want you to coach them so they can learn to figure things out on their own, says Bruce Watt, senior vice president at DDI, whose research found that 40% of leaders say their managers don't have adequate coaching skills. Companies need to invest in a culture of coaching, says Watt, which includes giving managers the feedback they need to be effective and creating a way to measure success. Full Story: Human Resources Director (7/17)
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Final Nutrition Standards resource

July 12, 2024

SNA recently launched a specially designed resource page dedicated to walking you through the significant changes made to long-term school nutrition standards as announced in the April Final Rule released by USDA. The resource also provides you with an opportunity to share your questions and feedback on each section of the Rule. Learn more.
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Food allergies linked to gut microbiome differences

July 12, 2024

A study published in Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology found that the gut microbiomes of children with food allergies differ significantly from those without, with fewer differences observed in younger children. Lead researcher Punita Ponda emphasized the importance of early food introduction and the potential role of pro- and prebiotics in managing food allergies, suggesting that younger children may benefit more from oral immunotherapy.
Full Story: Healio (free registration) (7/10) 
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Md. district to source local foods for school meals

July 12, 2024

More healthful and locally sourced foods will appear in school meals in the Howard County Public School System in Maryland. Prompted by the results of a student survey, the changes will be explored during roundtables and taste- testing opportunities as part of a partnership with the Healthier Choices Coalition at Horizon Foundation.
Full Story: WJZ-TV (Baltimore) (7/11) 
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New podcast season available now

July 11, 2024

Season Two of SNA's podcast, "School Food for Thought," is out now! Currently, the first three episodes are available and three more will be released this week. Grab your headphones and listen as you get ready for our 2024 Annual National Conference (ANC24) in Boston. Tune in now -- and catch up on episodes you may have missed -- on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or on the SNA website.
 More +

Groups in Wis. advocate for universal school meals

July 11, 2024

Spectrum News/Wisconsin (5/28) 
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Universal school meal benefits add up for Mich. students

July 11, 2024

Michigan students have made academic gains and experienced health benefits since a statewide universal school meal program was established for the 2023-24 school year, which also erased school lunch debt that rose sharply after federal pandemic waivers for universal school meals expired. The state's program "has been more popular than we ever imagined," said Diane Golzynski, deputy superintendent of the Michigan Department of Education. "We are truly investing in families and students."
Full Story: Second Wave (Mich.) (5/30) 
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USDA funding to be a primary topic at SNA conference

July 11, 2024

Attendees of the School Nutrition Association's Annual National Conference in Boston that begins July 14 will brainstorm the most productive ways to use the $26 million in grant funds that the USDA's Food and Nutrition Service plans to allocate. Best practices for meeting evolving standards will be one area of primary interest, along with equipment upgrades and a commitment to collaboration among the various entities involved in school food service.
Full Story: Total Food Service (7/5) 
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Unlock your potential with SNA's on-demand SNS exam prep course!

July 9, 2024

SNA's new On Demand Prep Course for the School Nutrition Specialist (SNS) Exam is available now in the SNA Training Zone. This course offers a flexible, online learning experience that will bring you the same top-notch training that SNA provides at our conferences while giving you the control to learn at your own pace, wherever and whenever is most convenient for you. No more rearranging your schedule to fit in-person or live trainings! Learn more.
 More +

New podcast season available now

July 8, 2024

Season Two of SNA's podcast, "School Food for Thought," is out now! Currently, the first three episodes are available and three more will be released this week. Grab your headphones and listen as you get ready for our 2024 Annual National Conference (ANC24) in Boston. Tune in now -- and catch up on episodes you may have missed -- on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or on the SNA website.
 More +

Ind. district to pilot finger-scanning in cafeteria

July 8, 2024

Clark-Pleasant Community School Corporation in Indiana is considering finger-scanning technology to speed up lunch lines and enhance efficiency. The system aims to ensure student privacy and reduce plastic waste from ID cards and will be piloted at an elementary school.
 More +

Build your school nutrition team with SNA's Hiring Toolkit

July 5, 2024

School's out -- and that means it's time to focus on hiring for the upcoming year. Fill open positions with the help of SNA's "Bring More to the Table" Hiring Toolkit, which is full of resources to help recruit new job candidates. We know staff shortages are challenging, so we built this Hiring Toolkit with you in mind. Read more to access the resources you need to build an effective school nutrition team.
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Utah schools consider length of lunch period

July 4, 2024

Students in Utah schools say they often leave the lunchroom hungry because they have insufficient time to eat. Parents and education officials are raising concerns about the impact on students' health and learning and advocating for longer lunch periods.
Full Story: KUTV-TV (Salt Lake City) (6/28) 
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Have you checked out the SNA's Action Network?

July 3, 2024

Tap into SNA's Action Network -- a robust hub designed specifically for school nutrition advocacy. Take a look at some key resources offered on the Action Network:

·  Access key federal legislation impacting school nutrition programs;
·  Take action on federal campaigns to make sure your leaders in Congress know how they can aid your programs;
·  View key state legislation to see how other states around the country are working with their local leaders to improve school meal programs;
·  Look up your legislators and learn how to get in contact with them and their staff;
·  And much more.
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RD offers advice on preventing anemia

July 3, 2024

Registered dietitian Patrick Traynor says diet is a frequent cause of microcytic (iron deficiency) and macrocytic anemia (vitamin B12 or folate deficiency), which results in smaller or larger than normal red blood cell counts, respectively. Vitamin C can help convert nonheme iron from plants to the more soluble heme iron found in animal protein, Traynor says, and consuming a diverse, nutrient-dense diet and not overcooking foods can also help improve iron levels.
Full Story: The Tahoe Daily Tribune (Calif.) (6/30) 
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Del. lawmakers expand free school meals

July 3, 2024

Delaware's legislature unanimously approved a bill to provide free meals for students previously eligible for reduced-price meals. This change allows districts like Red Clay Consolidated School District to reallocate funds while planning for future free meals for all students.
Full Story: Delaware Public Media (7/2) 
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Bulk meal given to some families in Md. district

July 2, 2024

Baltimore County Public Schools in Maryland are providing bulk meal distributions at select locations -- offering more than 3,000 meals weekly to help families during the summer. Parents living in more remote areas of the county can pick up a week's worth of breakfast and lunch for their students who usually eat at school.
 Full Story: WMAR-TV (Baltimore)
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US senators introduce bills to combat child hunger

July 2, 2024

Senators Bob Casey, D-Pa., and John Fetterman, D-Pa., have introduced two bills to expand access to free and reduced-price meals for millions of students across the US.

·  The School Hunger Elimination Act expands NSLP and SBP direct certification for all school-age children receiving Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income.
·  The Nutrition Red Tape Reduction Act would permanently lower the threshold for schools to participate in community eligibility to 25% Identified Student Percentage (ISP), ensuring that thousands of schools are eligible to participate.
Stay tuned -- SNA will monitor the progress of these bills as they are discussed in the Senate. Don't forget to use SNA's Action Network to see what other bills have been introduced in Congress and learn how you can advocate for school nutrition programs.
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House appropriations panel cuts education budget

July 2, 2024

The US House appropriations subcommittee passed a bill reducing federal education spending by $11 billion, or 13%, targeting Title I and other programs. Democrats argue the cuts for the 2025 fiscal year will harm K-12 education, but the bill is likely to move toward the center as it progresses through Congress, Rep. Tom Cole, R-Okla., says.
Full Story: K-12 Dive (6/27) 
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Clarity, validation can boost your team's well-being

June 26, 2024

Workplace changes, namely the rise of remote and hybrid working and declining employee well-being and engagement, require managers to be more people-oriented, communicative and flexible, says S. Chris Edmonds with The Purposeful Culture Group. Edmonds highlights two practices -- clarity and validation -- that leaders can model to boost well-being and engagement.
 Full Story: SmartBrief/Leadership (6/25) More +

W.Va. district expects all its schools to join CEP

June 27, 2024

WOWK-TV (Charleston, W.Va.) (6/25)
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SNF Equipment Grant winners

June 27, 2024

The School Nutrition Foundation (SNF) recently announced the winners of its 2024 Equipment Grant Program. Nine school nutrition professionals are being awarded grants to benefit their school meal programs, with total grants worth more than $600,000 of equipment. Facing continued staffing and financial challenges, school nutrition professionals nationwide applied for SNF Equipment Grants in the 2023-24 school year. The 2024 SNF Equipment Grants are made possible by the generous contributions of AmTab, Winston Foodservice, ITW Food Equipment Group (Hobart Equipment and Vulcan Equipment), Food Warming Equipment Company, Inc., LTI Inc., Cambro Manufacturing, Sterno Delivery and Innoseal Systems. Learn more.
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W.Va. district expects all its schools to join CEP

June 27, 2024

WOWK-TV (Charleston, W.Va.) (6/25)
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Clarity, validation can boost your team's well-being

June 26, 2024

Workplace changes, namely the rise of remote and hybrid working and declining employee well-being and engagement, require managers to be more people-oriented, communicative and flexible, says S. Chris Edmonds with The Purposeful Culture Group. Edmonds highlights two practices -- clarity and validation -- that leaders can model to boost well-being and engagement.
 Full Story: SmartBrief/Leadership (6/25) 
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LEAD to Succeed™ Training grant extension

June 26, 2024

We have big news! Thanks to a grant extension from USDA, SNA state affiliates and state agencies can request in-person or virtual LEAD to Succeed™ training through May 20, 2025. The School Nutrition Foundation's (SNF) LEAD to Succeed™ is a high-quality, turnkey training in communications and leadership developed specifically for school nutrition professionals. Review all the available LEAD to Succeed™ training options.
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Md. schools expand access to summer meals

June 26, 2024

Baltimore County Public Schools in Maryland is expanding its summer meal program by adding two rural bulk pickup sites and offering onsite lunches at 16 locations. This expansion guarantees all children under 18 access to free meals, helping to ease financial burdens on families.
 Full Story: WYPR-FM (Baltimore) (6/24) 
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Report: MD schools serving thousands fewer meals post-COVID

June 26, 2024

The latest Maryland School Breakfast Report finds tens of thousands fewer kids are being served post COVID.
 
 The end of pandemic era waivers two years ago saw schools revert to tiered systems of free or reduced-price meals based on household income. In turn, despite a slightly larger student population, the 2022-23 school year saw the average number of breakfasts served in a day fall by nearly 39,000, and saw 65,000 fewer lunches served, compared with 2020-21. 
 
 LaMonika Jones, interim director of Maryland Hunger Solutions, said reducing the reach of school meals, especially breakfast, takes a toll in the classroom. 
 
 "It's challenging for a student at any age to sit in the classroom and focus on what the teacher is trying to share when they're hungry. I understand the argument that it takes away from instruction, but the distraction of being hungry also takes away from instructional time," Jones explained.
 
 The report shows the total number of breakfasts served in the state overall fell by more than 6.5 million in 2022 versus the year prior. 
 
 The report identifies barriers to school breakfast participation, including cost, time and the stigma associated with being on a free meal program. 
 
 Schools with at least 40% of students qualifying for free or reduced-price meals can opt-in to the state-funded Maryland Meals for Achievement program, which offers free breakfast to all students. While traditional school breakfasts are served in the cafeteria before class, Jones says MMFA is an alternative breakfast model that offers greater flexibility. 
 
 "Our students are able to either have 'grab and go' style, which works really well for our older students, or for our little ones, we're able to have breakfast in the classroom. And having those alternative models in place, as well as the funding to cover the cost of these alternative models, ensures that we're meeting that need," she continued. 
 
 This past year saw 588 schools participate in MMFA, up from 485 in 2019.
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Don't miss tomorrow's #ANC24 Attendee Webinar

June 25, 2024

Are you attending #ANC24 in a few weeks? Be sure to join us on Wednesday, June 26 at 2 p.m. ET for the #ANC24 Attendee Webinar. All registered attendees are highly encouraged to attend this preparatory webinar to have your conference questions answered before you arrive in Boston. If you can't make it, don't worry. The webinar will be recorded and sent to all attendees at a later date.
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New federal school nutrition standards add costs

June 25, 2024

The USDA's updated nutrition standards for schools, effective July 1, will cost districts an additional $206 million annually, according to the Congressional Research Service. These changes, focusing on reducing added sugars and sodium, lack dedicated federal funding but have some available resources.
 Full Story: K-12 Dive (6/24) 

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Build your school nutrition team with SNA's Hiring Toolkit

June 21, 2024

School's out -- and that means it's time to focus on hiring for the upcoming year. Fill open positions with the help of SNA's "Bring More to the Table" Hiring Toolkit, which is full of resources to help recruit new job candidates. We know staff shortages are challenging, so we built this Hiring Toolkit with you in mind. Access the resources you need to build an effective school nutrition team here.
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SN magazine: Inclusive eats -- Embracing special diets in the cafeteria

June 20, 2024

Embracing special diets will go a long way in making your cafeteria a safe and welcoming space where all students can get the healthy food they need to succeed, and School Nutrition's May/June issue includes all valuable insights on how you can make those accommodations in a school nutrition setting. Read the issue for an overview of religious diets, advice from experienced school nutrition professionals on how to manage special diets, a Q&A with a chef about "plant-forward" menus, a guide to important special diet definitions and vocabulary and more.
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Ore. school district to offer free daily meals

June 20, 2024

Starting next school year, Bend-La Pine Schools in Oregon will provide free breakfast and lunch to all students without requiring any forms or qualifications. This initiative aims to reduce financial stress for families and increase student meal participation across the district.
 Full Story: KTVZ-TV (Bend, Ore.) (6/18) 
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Eating spinach offers healthful benefits

June 18, 2024

Eating "one to two cups of fresh spinach or half a cup of cooked spinach per day, can provide substantial health benefits without significant risk," according to registered dietitian nutritionist Yaa Boakye. Providing vitamins A, C and K, folate, magnesium, manganese, fiber and antioxidants, spinach offers healthful benefits, and would be difficult to eat in excess due to the high fiber content, which is satiating, but those prone to kidney stones or on blood thinners should be mindful not to eat too much spinach, Boakye and RD Caroline Young say.
 Full Story: Parade (6/12) 
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Murthy: Social media labeling needed to protect teens

June 18, 2024

US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy says he will advocate for warning labels on social media platforms to alert parents to their potential effects on teen mental health. Labeling would demonstrate that "social media has not been proved safe," Murthy wrote in a published essay. Such a decision would require congressional approval.
 Full Story: The New York Times (6/17) More +

Say hello to your ANC24 closing keynote speaker

June 17, 2024

Unlocking your full potential may feel like embarking on a cosmic journey, but once you arrive, the long ascent is worth it. On Tuesday, July 16, attendees of SNA's Annual National Conference (#ANC24) will hear from our closing keynote, Jose Hernandez, a trailblazer who defied the odds to fulfill his dream of space exploration. Watch his official welcome video. Haven't registered for ANC24 yet? Register today and get ready to blast off!
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ANC 2024: Don't miss the "School Nutrition Event of the Year"

June 14, 2024

SNA's 2024 Annual National Conference (ANC) in Boston is just a month away. With 6,000+ enthusiastic school nutrition professionals, three jam-packed days of 125+ educational sessions, 900+ exhibit booths and exclusive networking events -- there's no doubt this is the place to be! Register today.

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Ill. school district delivers summer meals to families

June 13, 2024

The Sullivan Community Unit School District #300 in Illinois provides home-delivered breakfast and lunch meals to children under 18 throughout summer break. This program, started during the pandemic, now serves over 800 families, ensuring no child goes hungry when school is out.
 Full Story: WAND-TV (Decatur, Ill.) (6/13) 
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School systems strive to meet needs as budgets shrink

June 13, 2024

School systems face exceptionally difficult budget decisions as Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Funds expire and state education funding directives fail to align with needs. The Flemington-Raritan Regional School District in New Jersey is an example as it weighs difficult decisions in the course of finding $5.1 million to cut from its $80 million budget.
 Full Story: Education Week (6/11) 
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RD says honeydew melon is nutritionally worthy

June 13, 2024

Honeydew melon is worthy of incorporating into your diet, says registered dietitian Miranda Galati, noting that this melon is provides potassium and fiber and is hydrating. "While honeydew contains naturally occurring sugars, most emerging research suggests its fiber and fluid content might lower the risk of Type 2 diabetes," Galati says, adding to look for a pale, creamy colored exterior when shopping for a honeydew melon since those with a greenish hue are not ripe yet.
 Full Story: USA Today (6/9) 
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Free breakfast to be served to all students in Idaho district

June 12, 2024

All students in the Boise School District in Idaho will be eligible for free breakfast in the upcoming school year, through a $2.1 million budget item that combines general funds from the district and USDA money. In addition, the district will also provide free breakfasts and lunches to students in 20 schools through the Community Eligibility Provision.
 Full Story: Boise State Public Radio (Idaho) (6/12)  More +

2 Del. laws related to school meals advance

June 12, 2024

A measure in the Delaware Legislature that appropriates around $250,000 per year to provide free breakfasts and lunches to students who qualify for reduced-priced meals has passed in the House of Representatives and been forwarded to the Senate. In addition, the state Senate recently passed a bill that prohibits keeping students from participating in extracurricular activities because of meal debt that is awaiting the governor's signature.
 Full Story: Delaware Public Media (6/11) 

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Upcoming SNA webinar

June 11, 2024

Join "Unlocking the Power of Sorghum: A Sustainable Supergrain for School Meals," (June 20 at 3:00 p.m. ET) to discover the nutritional, sustainable and culinary benefits of sorghum. Learn from experts about its rich history, its growth in the United States and how this gluten-free, high-fiber and antioxidant-rich whole grain can enhance school meals. This webinar is supported by the United Sorghum Checkoff Program. Register here!
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Mandated days, hours of school attendance vary widely

June 11, 2024

The amount of class time students in the US receive varies widely from state to state, with states measuring their mandates in days ranging from 160 in Colorado to 186 in Kansas and those using educational hours as a gauge spanning from 720 in Arizona to 1,260 in Texas, according to a study in the American Education Research Journal. Prioritizing instructional time is essential no matter the number of days or hours of education mandated, says Emily Morton of the Center for Analysis of Longitudinal Data in Education Research.
 Full Story: The 74 (6/10) 
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#ANC24 full session schedule released!

June 10, 2024

Exciting news! The full schedule for SNA's Annual National Conference (#ANC24) is now available! On our website, you can search for sessions by date, presentation type, room number, suggested audience or by typing in the search bar. View the full schedule to start planning your session line-up. Not registered yet? Let's take care of that. Save your seat at the "School Nutrition Event of the Year" here!
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School nutrition opportunities await in the SNA Career Center

June 7, 2024

Find the perfect employee match! The SNA Career Center is more than just a job search platform -- it's a gateway to unlocking your full potential within the dynamic field of school nutrition. Take your first step: Visit the Career Center today and embark on a journey that will shape your professional path while positively impacting the lives of children.
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Ouch, that stings! The benefits of negative feedback

June 7, 2024

Receiving negative feedback as a leader can be challenging, but reframing feedback as opportunities for growth can remove the emotional response, leadership coach Bill Pullen writes. Leaders who show a healthy response to feedback also model how other workers in the organization should respond when they receive feedback that has a sting.
 Full Story: Cultivating Leadership blog (6/5) 

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Ky. district distributes summer meals via drive-through

June 7, 2024

Drive-through meal distribution in Kentucky's Lyon County School District aims to feed nearly 1,000 students until the end of July, addressing food insecurity in the region, where more than 10,000 children face hunger. Superintendent Russell Tilford emphasizes the program's extension of free lunch offerings to combat food insecurity during the summer, with packages containing both perishable and nonperishable items.
 Full Story: WPSD-TV (Paducah, Ky.) (6/6) 

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Ohio district has waiting list for produce boxes

June 7. 2024

Lima City Schools in Ohio, in collaboration with the Children's Hunger Alliance, distributes fresh produce boxes every Thursday to families as part of their summer lunch program, addressing nutritional needs during the summer break. The initiative has garnered success, and there is a waiting list for the produce boxes.
 Full Story: WLIO-TV/WOHL-CD (Lima, Ohio) (6/6) 


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N.Y. invests in expansion of farm-to-school program

June 7, 2024

New York State is offering $1.5 million in grants for its Farm-to-School program, aiming to increase the use of locally grown food in K-12 school menus. Eligible applicants can apply for grants ranging from $50,000 to $100,000 -- with a portion reserved for first-time awardees -- to enhance nutrition for students while supporting local farmers.
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Find menu inspiration in SNA's Recipe Library!

June 6, 2024

Hungry for delicious recipe ideas? Visit SNA's Recipe Library to find tons of K-12 recipes to help you keep your menus fresh, whether you're testing a new cuisine or catering for a special diet. And, if you have a great recipe you would like to share, learn how to submit it here and become a part of this growing resource.


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SN Plus: Bring Farm Stands and Markets to Your Students

June 5, 2024

In the latest SN Plus, "Stand" and Deliver, two school nutrition directors share the details of their innovative school farmers market and produce stand programs, designed to expose children to healthy fresh foods and expand their understanding of where food comes from and why supporting local producers is important for the community. Use their stories to inspire you! How could you implement these ideas at your own school? School Nutrition thanks Bridgford Foods for its generous support in making this article available.


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Veggie-rich diet may improve glucose tolerance

June 5, 2024

A study in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that consuming a diet rich in green, leafy, cruciferous and colorful vegetables may improve glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity, while high intake of potato fries or chips may have adverse effects on these markers. The findings highlight the differential impact of vegetable subgroups on metabolic health.
 Full Story: Medscape (6/3) More +

Summer peaches offer bountiful nutrients

June 4, 2024

Farmers are predicting a bumper peach season and registered dietitian Miranda Galati says the fruit is a good source of fiber, polyphenols, carotenoids, vitamins A and C, and hydrating fluid. As with most fruits, Galati suggests pairing peaches with a healthful protein or fat to increase satiety and nutrition, saying "fruit sometimes contains fat-soluble nutrients like vitamin A, D, E and K, which are better absorbed when eaten with a fat source."
 Full Story: USA Today (6/2) 


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Upcoming SNA webinars

June 4, 2024

Stay up to date, grow your knowledge and develop new skills with these upcoming SNA webinars.
 
June 20 @ 3:00 p.m. ET: Join us for the webinar, "Unlocking the Power of Sorghum: A Sustainable Supergrain for School Meals," to discover the nutritional, sustainable and culinary benefits of sorghum. This webinar is supported by the United Sorghum Checkoff Program

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N.Y. governor looks to restrict smartphones in schools

June 4, 2024

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul has stated that smartphones should not be available to students at school, saying their presence is detrimental to students' mental health and growth. Hochul and other state officials have expressed concerns about the effects of social media on students' well being, and Hochul plans to work with teachers, parents and other stakeholders about potential legislation that would limit access to smartphones during the school day, a spokesperson said.
 Full Story: Chalkbeat/New York (5/30) 

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Balance is key to good family nutrition, RD says

June 3, 2024

To ensure a nutritious diet for everyone in the family, including picky eaters, registered dietitian Christina Klapper encourages meals that balance protein, carbohydrates, and non-starchy vegetables and fruits and offers ideas for a balanced breakfast, lunch and dinner. Klapper includes protein-rich options since she says, "We definitely need protein at every meal, and I always recommend between 20 to 30 grams minimum."
 Full Story: WFAA-TV (Dallas-Fort Worth) (5/30)  More +

Meet your #ANC24 Opening Keynote Speaker

June 3, 2024

SNA's Annual National Conference (#ANC24) Opening General Session Speaker, Chef Andrew Zimmern, can't wait to meet attendees in Boston! In his keynote address on Sunday, July 14, he will offer an inspiring perspective of hope, perseverance and leadership through the lens of his own trials and triumphs. Watch his official welcome video and don't miss #ANC24. Register now!

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Latin American Cuisine Summit Series: Part 1 with chef Rick Martinez

May 31, 2024

Latin American Cuisine Summit Series: Part 1 with chef Rick Martinez
 Join the Culinary Institute of America for its first installation of the virtual Latin American Cuisine Summit Series, where chef Rick Martinez demonstrates how he makes chiles anchos rellenos de queso. Gain in-depth knowledge and explore traditional techniques. REGISTER TODAY >>

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Universal school meal benefits add up for Mich. students

May 31, 2024

Michigan students have made academic gains and experienced health benefits since a statewide universal school meal program was established for the 2023-24 school year, which also erased school lunch debt that rose sharply after federal pandemic waivers for universal school meals expired. The state's program "has been more popular than we ever imagined," said Diane Golzynski, deputy superintendent of the Michigan Department of Education. "We are truly investing in families and students."
 Full Story: Second Wave (Mich.) (5/30) 
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Early peanut consumption may prevent allergy later on

May 30, 2024

Feeding children peanuts regularly from infancy to age 5 years has been shown to reduce the rate of peanut allergy in adolescence, according to a study published in The New England Journal of Medicine. The follow-up study demonstrated sustained benefits of early peanut consumption, with only 4.4% of early peanut consumers developing allergies by age 13 compared with 15.4% of those who avoided peanuts.
 Full Story: The Hill (5/28) 
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Groups in Wis. advocate for universal school meals Groups in Wis. advocate for universal school meals

May 29. 2024

Community groups in Madison, Wis., are raising funds to pay off student lunch debts and advocating for the Madison Metropolitan School District to provide free meals for all students. The groups' campaign aims to raise $235,000 to clear current meal debts and increase the district's Food and Nutrition Budget by $2 million for the 2024-2025 budget, seeking additional federal funding to sustain the initiative.
 Full Story: Spectrum News/Wisconsin (5/28)


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Unlock your potential with SNA's on-demand SNS exam prep course!

May 24, 2024

We're pleased to introduce SNA's new On Demand Prep Course for the School Nutrition Specialist (SNS) Exam, available now in the SNA Training Zone. This course offers a flexible, online learning experience that will bring you the same top-notch training that SNA provides at our conferences while giving you the control to learn at your own pace, wherever and whenever is most convenient for you. No more rearranging your schedule to fit in-person or live trainings! Learn more.
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Spring issue of JCN&M: Now available!

May 24, 2024

The Spring 2024 edition of the Journal of Child Nutrition & Management (JCN&M), SNA's peer-reviewed academic publication, is available on SNA's website! In this issue, you'll find one research brief, three research-in-action articles and a summary of ongoing and completed research in the FNS Research Corner. Interested in contributing? The Journal is now seeking submissions for the Fall 2024 and Spring 2025 issues on a variety of child nutrition topics, including nutrition standards and education, administration, food safety, marketing and more. Review the contribution guidelines here.
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Delaware House consider free meals for students

May 24, 2024

Rep. Sherae'a Moore, driven by her concern for student meal debt, introduced House Bill 125 to provide free breakfast and lunch for all Delaware public school students, though it initially stalled due to its $30 million price tag. The bill has been revised to offer free meals only to those qualifying for reduced-price programs, projected to cost around $250,000 annually, and has now gained unanimous approval from the House Appropriations Committee.
 Full Story: Delaware News Journal (Wilmington, Del.) (5/23)  More +

SN magazine: Embracing special diets in the cafeteria

May 22, 2024

In the May/June issue of School Nutrition (SN) magazine, we're taking a close look at how you can make your cafeteria a safer, healthier, more comfortable, more welcoming place for those young people who follow a special diet. Log into your SNA account to take a look at the coverage.
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USDA: Fully cooking meat would kill avian flu virus

May 21, 2024

While no evidence of avian flu has been found in the US beef supply, the USDA says that fully cooking meat to the standard recommended 160 degree internal temperature for hamburger would effectively kill the virus if it were present. The USDA has issued alerts about dairy cattle infected with the avian flu virus and reiterated its long-standing warning to consumers not to drink raw milk.
 Full Story: MedPage Today (free registration) (5/16) 
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Draft of Farm Bill would allow whole milk in schools

May 21, 2024

The House of Representatives Agriculture Committee has released the first draft of the new Farm Bill, which includes increasing the cap for Tier 1 producers to 6 million pounds from 5 million. Another change would allow schools participating in the National School Lunch Program to again offer whole milk; existing USDA rules call for only fat-free or low-fat milk.
 Full Story: American Agriculturist (5/17)  More +

Md. school district adapts to USDA meal standards

May 20, 2024

Frederick County Public Schools in Maryland is gearing up to implement new USDA meal standards, including added sugar limits and sodium reductions, to be fully enforced by the 2027-28 academic year. Changes will gradually roll out over the next several years, aligning with national health guidelines for school nutrition.
 Full Story: The Frederick News-Post (Md.) (5/17)  More +

#ANC24: Get ready to rock at the Closing Event!

May 17, 2024

Experience the ultimate superstar collaboration at #ANC24! Get ready for SNA's 2024 Annual National Conference (#ANC24) Closing Event -- an Ezra Ray Hart concert -- the supergroup featuring Mark McGrath of Sugar Ray, Kevin Griffin of Better Than Ezra and Emerson Hart of Tonic! Find your spot in the crowd on Tuesday, July 16 at 7:30 p.m. at #ANC24 in Boston. If you haven't registered for #ANC24 yet, don't delay, register here.
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Colo. reports funding challenges for free school meals

May 17, 2024

The Healthy School Meals for All program in Colorado offers free meals to public-school students in the state, but is facing funding shortages due to higher than expected participation. State legislators have passed a law to cover the funding gap for the current and next school years.
 Full Story: KKTV-TV (Colorado Springs) (5/16) 
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Find menu inspiration in SNA's Recipe Library!

May 16, 2024

Hungry for delicious recipe ideas? Visit SNA's Recipe Library to find tons of K-12 recipes to help you keep your menus fresh, whether you're testing a new cuisine or catering for a special diet. And, if you have a great recipe you would like to share, learn how to submit it here and become a part of this growing resource.
 More +

Blood test shows promise for children with peanut allergies

May 14, 2024

A study published in Allergy found that changes in antibody levels over time can predict which children are likely to outgrow their peanut allergy, adding that decreasing sIgG4 and sIgE levels in blood was associated with peanut allergy resolution by the age of 10. Findings were based on 156 infants with challenge-confirmed peanut allergy.
 Full Story: HealthDay News (5/13) 
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Celebrate AANHPI Heritage Month with SNA!

May 14, 2024

May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage (AANHPI) Month! This month SNA recognizes and celebrates the achievements and contributions that Americans of Asian and Pacific Island heritage have made in our school nutrition community and throughout US history. Learn more about this important observance, and how you can bring AANHPI Month to your menus, too.
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SN magazine: Inclusive eats -- Embracing special diets in the cafeteria

May 13, 2024

Embracing special diets will go a long way in making your cafeteria a safe and welcoming space where all students can get the healthy food they need to succeed, and School Nutrition's May/June issue includes all valuable insights on how you can make those accommodations in a school nutrition setting. Read the issue for an overview of religious diets, advice from experienced school nutrition professionals on how to manage special diets, a Q&A with a chef about "plant-forward" menus, a guide to important special diet definitions and vocabulary and more.
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Maine schools introduce halal meal options

May 13, 2024

Several schools in southern Maine have introduced halal meal options to cater to Muslim students' dietary needs, aiming to ensure all students have access to nutritious meals during the school day. With meat sourced, stored and prepared separately, these initiatives represent a broader effort to promote inclusivity and address concerns about food access among students from diverse backgrounds.
 Full Story: Maine Public (5/10) 
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Beware meaningless food marketing claims, RDs say

May 10, 2024

Watch out for marketing claims on food packaging that really have no meaning, for instance "no cholesterol" on a plant-based product that would never have cholesterol or "uncured" on naturally cured processed meats, experts say. "Uncured meats aren't better for you," says registered dietitian Amy Keating, "because synthetic and natural nitrates and nitrites have the same effects on the body."
 Full Story: The Washington Post/Consumer Reports (5/6) 
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Califf: Bird flu poses low risk to public health

May 10, 2024

FDA Commissioner Robert Califf said at a Senate hearing Wednesday that the current bird flu strain circulating in the US poses a low risk to public health, but the FDA and other agencies are preparing to scale up medical countermeasures in case the H5N1 virus jumps to humans on a larger level. Califf said there's a possibility that the virus could jump to people and cause lung infections, but the FDA can scale up vaccine manufacturing if necessary, and the existing mRNA platforms can be used to target new strains.
 Full Story: The Hill (5/8) 
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#ANC24: Add a pre-conference workshop!

May 2, 2024

Extend your learning and enhance your Annual National Conference (#ANC24) experience when you add a Pre-Conference Workshop to your registration today! See a full description of each workshop and include it with your conference registration. All pre-cons are on Saturday, July 13.
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Federal school nutrition standards signal healthier options

May 2, 2024

Dieticians for Montana's Bozeman School District 7 anticipate positive changes in children's nutrition as new federal nutrition standards mandate reduced sodium and added sugars in school meals, set to take effect between 2025 and 2027. Emphasizing scratch cooking and local produce, the district aims to meet the new requirements while ensuring nutritious options for students.
 Full Story: Bozeman Daily Chronicle (Mont.) (5/1) 


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Free school meals in Ore. boost student behavior

May 2, 2024

Oregon schools adopting free meals for all students via federal funding report higher meal participation and fewer disciplinary actions, as the approach eliminates stigma associated with free lunches. Researchers note improved student behavior and hope to expand programs to more schools.
 Full Story: KGW-TV (Portland, Ore.) (4/30) 
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School Lunch Hero Day lauds nutrition pros' dedication

May 2, 2024

School Lunch Hero Day, celebrated the first Friday in May, honors the dedication of school nutrition staff members nationwide, who adhere to strict standards and cater to student allergies, ensuring every child gets nourished. In Washington state, school nutrition professionals greet students with smiles, serve millions of meals yearly and innovate with local produce, shared school nutrition directors in the state.
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Rule to address salmonella in frozen, raw chicken products

May 1, 2024

Starting next year, the USDA will begin testing chicken used in stuffed and breaded frozen chicken products to help protect against salmonella contamination, according to a new final rule issued last week. The agency said these products continue to be linked to salmonella outbreaks, perhaps because consumers do not understand that the chicken is raw and must be fully cooked.
 Full Story: HealthDay News (4/28) 
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Pa. lawmakers seek flexibility on school milk rules

May 1, 2024

The Pennsylvania House committee has endorsed a bill allowing local schools to serve whole milk, bypassing federal regulations, as part of a broader initiative to support local dairy farmers and offer healthier beverage options to students. Despite federal restrictions favoring low-fat options, lawmakers are pushing for legislative changes to reintroduce whole milk in school cafeterias.
 Full Story: Lancaster Farming (Pa.) (4/30) 
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Final USDA school meal guidelines embrace local fare

May 1, 2024

The USDA's recent changes to school meal standards prioritize locally sourced foods, simplifying procurement and supporting regional farmers, as part of a broader initiative to strengthen farm-to-school connections. This shift aligns with ongoing efforts to promote nutrition security and bolster regional markets.
 Full Story: Civil Eats (4/30) 
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Final USDA school meal guidelines embrace local fare

May 1, 2024

The USDA's recent changes to school meal standards prioritize locally sourced foods, simplifying procurement and supporting regional farmers, as part of a broader initiative to strengthen farm-to-school connections. This shift aligns with ongoing efforts to promote nutrition security and bolster regional markets.
 Full Story: Civil Eats (4/30) 
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Maine schools embrace plant-based menus

April 30, 2024

Maine's Department of Education is launching a training session focusing on vegan and vegetarian meal preparation for school cafeterias, catering to the rising demand for plant-based options among younger students. Culinary workshop attendees from various districts are looking to incorporate more inclusive and innovative menu choices.
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Opinion: BMI is obsolete as a health measure

April 30, 2024

Body mass index is an outdated and flawed measure of health that contributes to care bias and does not meet the needs of modern medicine, writes Gretchen Zimmermann of Vida Health. "It's time we move beyond BMI and adopt a holistic approach to truly gauge health," Zimmermann says, noting that successful care and treatment require a personalized, interdisciplinary approach.
 Full Story: MedCity News (4/26) 
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USDA: Flavored milk can remain on school lunch menus

April 30, 2024

The USDA will allow flavored milk like chocolate milk to remain part of the school lunch menu as long as it meets the new reduced sugar regulations, which take effect in fall 2025. Originally, the USDA had opposed flavored milk, but the department agreed to allow the beverage after securing assurances from milk manufacturers that the flavored milk offered would meet the new sugar limitations.
 Full Story: CBS News (4/24),  STAT (4/24) 
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Build your school nutrition team with help from SNA's Hiring Toolkit

April 26, 2024

Need help finding qualified candidates? Fill open positions with the help of SNA's free "Bring More to the Table" Hiring Toolkit, which is full of resources to help recruit new job candidates. Start recruiting today! Access the resources you need here to build an effective school nutrition team.
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FDA finds bird flu virus particles in pasteurized milk

April 26, 2024

The FDA reported that remnants of the bird flu virus were found in some pasteurized milk samples, but it said the products are still safe for human consumption because pasteurization is likely to neutralize heat-sensitive viruses such as H5N1. "To date, we have seen nothing that would change our assessment that the commercial milk supply is safe," the agency said. The FDA is also evaluating any positive findings through egg inoculation tests, and results from multiple studies are expected to be released in the near future.
 Full Story: Reuters (4/23),  The Associated Press (4/24) 
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Alaska schools receive grant to serve local foods

April 26, 2024

The Petersburg School District in Alaska is receiving national recognition for integrating traditional, locally-sourced foods into its menus, with a $100,000 USDA grant supporting the effort. Students enjoy dishes like herring eggs and moose, and school nutrition professionals work hard to create original recipes from scratch.
 Full Story: KFSK-FM (Petersburg, Alaska) (4/25) 
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USDA issues final school meal nutrition standards

April 24, 2024

The USDA has issued the final rule limiting the amount of added sugar allowed in products like cereal, yogurt and flavored milk served in school meals beginning in fall 2025, and reducing sodium by 15% beginning in fall 2027. Chris Derico, president of the School Nutrition Association, applauded the rule, calling it "more attainable, long-term nutrition goals that acknowledge the tremendous challenges schools face when working to adjust menus and gain student acceptance of healthier meals."
 Full Story: Education Week (4/24),  The Associated Press (4/24),  The Hill (4/24),  The New York Times (4/25) 
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Don't miss #ANC24!

April 22, 2024

Registration for SNA's Annual National Conference (#ANC24) is open! Join us from July 14 to 16 in Boston, Mass., for the school nutrition event of the year! This year's theme, "Shaping Tomorrow Together," reflects our collective commitment to shaping a better future for school nutrition. Learn more about #ANC24 and register today.
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Study shows school lunches' nutritional impact

April 19, 2024

A recent University of Georgia study reveals that school-prepared lunches significantly improve the diets of students -- particularly benefiting low-income and non-Hispanic Black students by increasing whole grain consumption and reducing saturated fat intake. Findings advocate for broader access to healthy, free meals for all students, urging federal government action.
 Full Story: WUGA-FM (Athens, Ga.)  More +

Calif. universal school meal program must be maintained

April 17, 2024

Facing a budget shortfall, legislators are considering adding back in requirements to receive free meals at schools, although the state launched the School Meals for All program in 2021. "There is simply no way to impose bureaucratic school meal paperwork requirements on parents that verify their income that won't also result in denying the absolute neediest, the absolute hungriest children the food they need when they need it the most -- when they are growing up," writes Robert Fellmeth, executive director of the Children's Advocacy Institute.
 Full Story: The San Diego Union-Tribune (tiered subscription model)

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SN magazine: Unleashing culinary creativity in school cafeterias

April 17, 2024

When it comes to planning a menu, the last thing you ever want to do is let it get boring! Open up this year's annual Special Food Edition for all kinds of inspiration for preparing the best, tastiest, healthiest and most interesting options for the kids who come through your lunch lines every day. Log into your SNA account today and start reading the March/April edition of SN magazine.

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Survey: Only 2% of nutrition info on TikTok is accurate

April 15, 2024

A survey of 2,000 people and over 67,000 TikTok nutrition videos by Dublin City University in partnership with the MyFitnessPal platform showed only 2% offered accurate nutrition information that aligns with public health guidelines, while 57% of those surveyed say they are influenced or follow nutrition advice from these videos. Katie Keil of MyFitnessPal says, "The best thing we as consumers of social media can do is improve our digital health literacy -- and that starts with following credible experts and verifying what you hear against science."
 Full Story: Delish  More +

Iowa district considers online store to pay off meal debt

April 15, 2024

The Urbandale Community School District in Iowa is considering launching an online apparel store with 15% of sales intended to help clear students' lunch debt -- aiming to tackle a balance of over $19,000. If approved, the initiative would offer a new way for supporters to contribute to the district's Food Service Angel Fund, supplementing annual donations of around $5,000.
 Full Story: The Des Moines Register (Iowa) (tiered subscription model) More +

Advocates push for longer school lunchtimes in Colo.

April 15, 2024

Colorado students and advocates are rallying behind a bill proposing a "time-to-eat" task force to address concerns about the length of lunch periods, citing issues like rushed meals, wasted food and hungry students. The proposed task force would evaluate lunchtime policies in schools and make recommendations for longer periods to allow for healthier eating and improved academic performance.
 Full Story: Chalkbeat/Colorado More +

Research points to benefits of universal school meals

April 15, 2024

Research suggests that providing free school meals to all students regardless of income level supports student well-being and academic performance as well as fosters a positive school climate by reducing stigma and improving social experiences. As students advocate for universal meal service, evidence points to the significant benefits of such policies in promoting equity and nurturing healthier, more inclusive learning environments.
 Full Story: Educ More +

Tenn. lawmakers seek whole milk option in schools

April 11, 2024

Tennessee lawmakers passed a bill allowing whole milk to be served separately from federally funded lunch lines, aiming to offer students another dairy option. Although the move could set up a clash with USDA regulations, proponents argue it is a step toward providing children with more appealing and nutritious milk choices.
 Full Story: Lancaster Farming (Pa.) More +

Unlock SNA's Conference Video Series

April 9, 2024

Jumpstart your professional development this year with SNA's Conference Video Series! Get the best of the Association's conferences on demand with 10 insightful sessions led by esteemed school nutrition professionals who share their expertise and knowledge on a variety of topics. Learn more.
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Deadline approaching: SNF professional development scholarships!

April 8, 2024

Don't miss the application period for the 2024 School Nutrition Foundation (SNF) Professional Development Scholarships. This year, SNF is offering multiple scholarship opportunities thanks to the support of our generous sponsors. Visit the SNF Scholarships page for details on eligibility and to access the applications for each award. The deadline to apply is April 26.
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#ANC24 registration is open!

April 6, 2024

Registration for SNA's Annual National Conference (#ANC24) is open! Join us from July 14-16 in Boston, Massachusetts, for the school nutrition event of the year! This year's theme, "Shaping Tomorrow Together," reflects our collective commitment to shaping a better future for school nutrition. Learn more about #ANC24 and register today.
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Take Action: New unpaid school meal debt bill

April 4, 2024

US Rep. Ilhan Omar has introduced the National Advisory Council on Unpaid School Meal Debt Act, establishing an unpaid school meal debt commission that would play a pivotal role in policy recommendations to address this critical issue. The Council would be composed of 14 members, including foodservice directors and employees. Take action now to urge your legislators to cosponsor H.R.7639 and begin essential measures to support school meal programs and the students who rely on them.

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USDA set to introduce final school meal standards

April 4, 2024

Students may soon see healthier school meals as the USDA proposes revisions to limit added sugars and decrease sodium levels -- aligning with dietary guidelines to reduce diet-related diseases. The USDA intends to implement the final version of school nutrition standards later this month.
 Full Story: KUNM-FM (Albuquerque, N.M.) More +

#SLHD24: Help students celebrate their school lunch heroes!

April 3, 2024

It's almost time to celebrate School Lunch Hero Day (#SLHD24) on May 3. As you're planning to commemorate the occasion, don't forget to involve students in the festivities with exciting activities like coloring pages, printable greeting cards, comic book panels and more!
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SN Plus: Building Good Fences

April 2, 2024

Setting boundaries can be a challenging task, but it's one that's important to master if you want your relationships to stay healthy and positive, instead of weighing you down. That's what "Building Good Fences," a new SN Plus article, is all about. You'll find definitions of different boundary types, examples of common barriers and advice on how to overcome those barriers, so you can start identifying and putting your own boundaries into place. School Nutrition thanks Hershey Salty Snacks Sales Company for its generous support in making this article available.
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Bonus podcast episode

April 1, 2024

This engaging discussion between two accomplished leaders is a must-listen for anyone interested in the field of school nutrition. In this "School Food for Thought" bonus podcast episode, Patricia Montague, the CEO of the School Nutrition Association (SNA), engages in a captivating conversation with Lori Adkins, the SNA 2022-23 President, during the Association's 2023 Annual National Conference held in Denver. Start listening today on Spotify, Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts or on the SNA website.
 

This engaging discussion between two accomplished leaders is a must-listen for anyone interested in the field of school nutrition. In this "School Food for Thought" bonus podcast episode, Patricia Montague, the CEO of the School Nutrition Association (SNA), engages in a captivating conversation with Lori Adkins, the SNA 2022-23 President, during the Association's 2023 Annual National Conference held in Denver. Start listening today on Spotify, Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts or on the SNA website.
 
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SNA's Food Allergy Resource Center

March 28, 2024

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.
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Hot off the presses! #NSLW24 and #NSBW25 themes are here!

March 27, 2024

We are pleased to announce the official themes of the 2024 National School Lunch Week (#NSLW24) and the 2025 National School Breakfast Week (#NSBW25) -- check them out here. We hope the themes spark great ideas and excitement within your programs! Learn more.
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USDA set to establish school meal reforms

April 27, 2024

The USDA has introduced its plans to limit added sugar and enhance nutrition in school meals, with proposed changes including reduced sodium and flavored milk restrictions. Some Washington state districts, like Port Townsend, have already adopted these guidelines, integrating fresh produce from student-tended gardens into their menus.
Full Story: KING-TV (Seattle) More +

Take action: New unpaid school meal debt bill

March 26, 2024

US Rep. Ilhan Omar has introduced the National Advisory Council on Unpaid School Meal Debt Act, establishing an unpaid school meal debt commission that would play a pivotal role in policy recommendations to address this critical issue. The Council would be composed of 14 members, including foodservice directors and employees. Take action now to urge your legislators to cosponsor H.R.7639 and begin essential measures to support school meal programs and the students who rely on them.
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Report: Universal school meals boost student participation

March 26, 2024

Several states have passed permanent universal school meal programs after Congress allowed the temporary nationwide policy to expire, leading to increased student participation in meal programs, according to a report by the Food Research & Action Center. However, the report also highlights a decline in student meal participation nationwide between the 2021-'22 and 2022-'23 school years, signaling the negative impact of most other states reverting to pre-pandemic meal policies.
 Full Story: K-12 Dive  More +

Find menu inspiration in SNA's Recipe Library!

March 22, 2024

Hungry for delicious recipe ideas? Visit SNA's Recipe Library to find tons of K-12 recipes to help you keep your menus fresh, whether you're testing a new cuisine or catering for a special diet. And, if you have a great recipe you would like to share, learn how to submit it here and become a part of this growing resource.
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Upgrade your school kitchen with SNF Equipment Grants

March 20, 2024

Applications for School Nutrition Foundation (SNF) Equipment Grants are now open! Thanks to our generous industry sponsors, the total value of equipment grants being awarded this year to selected SNA members is over half a million dollars. SNF Equipment Grants offer an opportunity for your school or school district to be awarded new kitchen equipment, cafeteria furniture or decor for a total upgrade of your school's current kitchen or dining areas. Find details and eligibility requirements here. The deadline to apply for all equipment grants is March 29.
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Take action: New unpaid school meal debt bill

March 18, 2024

US Rep. Ilhan Omar has introduced the National Advisory Council on Unpaid School Meal Debt Act, establishing an unpaid school meal debt commission that would play a pivotal role in policy recommendations to address this critical issue. The Council would be composed of 14 members, including foodservice directors and employees. Take action now to urge your legislators to cosponsor H.R.7639 and begin essential measures to support school meal programs and the students who rely on them.
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Deadline approaching: Apply for an SNF Equipment Grant!

March 15, 2024

Applications for School Nutrition Foundation (SNF) Equipment Grants are now open! Thanks to our generous industry sponsors, the total value of equipment grants being awarded this year to selected SNA members is over half a million dollars. SNF Equipment Grants offer an opportunity for your school or school district to be awarded new kitchen equipment, cafeteria furniture or decor for a total upgrade of your school's current kitchen or dining areas. Learn more and apply now! The deadline is March 29.
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Advocates back universal school meals in R.I.

March 15, 2024

Despite pushback from the governor's administration due to budget concerns, the Healthy School Meals for All Coalition continues to advocate for legislation providing free meals to all Rhode Island public school students. Proponents stress the importance of universal meals in addressing food insecurity, improving attendance, mental health and test scores and combating stigma associated with free and reduced-price meals.
 Full Story: The Providence Journal (R.I.)  More +

School nutrition pros advocate for meal programs at LAC

March 15, 2024

During the School Nutrition Association's annual Legislative Action Conference in Washington, D.C., nearly 850 school nutrition professionals urged Congress for increased funds and the maintenance of USDA nutrition standards, aiming to ensure all students nationwide have access to free, healthy school meals. Emphasizing the vital role of school meal programs in teaching healthy habits, school nutrition professionals highlighted the importance of federal support to provide nutritious meals for students.
 Full Story: The Glendale Star (Ariz.) More +

Access to free school meals grows in Ariz.

March 14, 2024

With the USDA's expanded Community Eligibility Provision, students at qualifying schools nationwide, including over 30 in Mesa, Ariz., now receive free hot meals, easing financial burdens for families and ensuring students' nutritional needs are met to aid in classroom focus. The provision's lowered poverty threshold to 25% has increased accessibility, benefiting over 3,000 schools across the country and offering relief to families on the brink of eligibility.
Full Story: KOLD-TV/KMSB-TV/KTTV-TV (Tucson, Ariz.) More +

Secretary Vilsack, USDA officials address #LAC24

March 13, 2024

USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack addressed SNA's Legislative Action Conference (#LAC24) attendees on March 4 and personally met with SNA's Executive Committee. He was accompanied by numerous USDA officials who provided an update on child nutrition program regulations and participated in meetings during the conference. Sec. Vilsack thanked attendees and school nutrition professionals nationwide for the significantly important work they do, noting that it's not possible to educate a child who is hungry. Learn more and view slides from the USDA update here.
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Del. mulls universal school meals, proposes alternative

March 12, 2024

Legislation being considered in Delaware, aiming to provide free school meals to all students, faces scrutiny over its $40 million annual cost. A proposed alternative bill suggests means-testing to cover meal costs for students with family incomes between 130% and 185% of the federal poverty threshold, which would reduce the cost to about $300,000 annually.
 Full Story: Delaware Public Media More +

School Nutrition magazine: Read the March/April 2024 issue

March 12, 2024

When working in school nutrition, food is always going to be on your mind, whether you're planning a menu, searching for new recipes, pondering how to introduce new products or ingredients or otherwise brainstorming how to keep your student customers engaged and excited about school meals. That's why, in this year's Special Food Edition, we're focusing on new ideas that will inspire you to keep up with the creativity and innovation you all bring to this field and to your menus. Read the current issue.
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Download printable "Made with School Lunch" posters

March 8, 2024

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) partnered for a new educational awareness campaign with plenty of resources and tools, including a video that debuted to acclaim at SNA's 2023 Annual National Conference. Don't miss the five NEW downloadable posters available in both English and Spanish, ready to be printed and displayed in your cafeteria. Print the new 8.5x11-inch versions yourself or take the 18x24-inch posters to a local print shop and then use them all over your school and cafeteria! Learn more.
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Baltimore Ravens' Poe celebrates School Breakfast Week

March 8, 2024

In celebration of National School Breakfast Week, Baltimore Ravens mascot Poe surprised fourth-grade students at Baltimore City Public Schools' Belmont Elementary School, emphasizing the importance of a nutritious breakfast. The Ravens partnered with the American Dairy Association to support the district's free breakfast program, aiding Maryland schools like Belmont -- where 65% of students participate -- and highlighting the crucial role proper nutrition plays in academic success.
Full Story: WBAL-TV (Baltimore) More +

SN Plus: From "Help Wanted" to "Talent Found"

March 7, 2024

When it comes to filling vacant positions, it's important to explore all avenues for recruiting new talented members for your team. There's one highly effective recruitment method you may not have used to its full potential: social media. From "Help Wanted" to "Talent Found", a new SN Plus article, includes a guide on how to develop a successful social media recruitment campaign for your school nutrition program, as well as examples of real "We're Hiring" posts from other programs' social media campaigns to inspire you. School Nutrition thanks Conagra Foodservice for its generous support in making this article available.
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Budget Challenges in Colorado

March 1, 2024

A surge in K-12 students accessing universal meals in Colorado, a result of the 2022 voter-approved Proposition FF, is facing financial strains as the program promised not only free meals to all students but additional initiatives, leading to potential shortfalls of up to $49 million. With high-income tax revenues falling slightly short of projections, lawmakers in Colorado's Joint Budget Committee are grappling with funding decisions, potentially postponing programs like purchasing local food, raising wages and reducing reliance on processed products.
 Full Story: KUSA-TV (Denver) (2/29) 
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Apply for an SNF Equipment Grant!

February 28, 2024

Applications for School Nutrition Foundation (SNF) Equipment Grants are now open! Thanks to our generous industry sponsors, the total value of equipment grants being awarded this year to selected SNA members is over half a million dollars. SNF Equipment Grants offer an opportunity for your school or school district to be awarded new kitchen equipment, cafeteria furniture or decor for a total upgrade of your school's current kitchen or dining areas. Learn more and apply now! The deadline is March 29.


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More #NSBW resources have come ashore!

February 24, 2024

Catch the wave! National School Breakfast Week (#NSBW24) is almost here -- March 4 to 8. Additional resources have recently dropped, including a Social Media Toolkit and an Activity Guide & Coloring Sheets. Dive into SNA's #NSBW24 resources for an unforgettable celebration of the power of a nutritious breakfast!
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Budget Challenges in Colorado

March 1, 2024

A surge in K-12 students accessing universal meals in Colorado, a result of the 2022 voter-approved Proposition FF, is facing financial strains as the program promised not only free meals to all students but additional initiatives, leading to potential shortfalls of up to $49 million. With high-income tax revenues falling slightly short of projections, lawmakers in Colorado's Joint Budget Committee are grappling with funding decisions, potentially postponing programs like purchasing local food, raising wages and reducing reliance on processed products.
 Full Story: KUSA-TV (Denver) 

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Md. considers legislation on universal school meals

February 28, 2024

Maryland lawmakers are considering legislation aiming to offer free breakfast and lunch to all public school students starting in the 2025-'24 school year. The bill, requiring $180 million annually, highlights the need to address hunger and support student success, though funding sources remain uncertain in a challenging budget year.
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Iowa lawmaker proposes universal school lunch program

February 24, 2024

State Rep. Matthew Rinker is championing a bill in Iowa that calls for every public and private school to provide free lunches to students, aiming to address food insecurity challenges. The initiative seeks to ensure students' nutritional needs are met, emphasizing the importance of access to meals for academic success, despite facing initial hurdles in the legislative process.
 Full Story: KIMT-TV (Mason City, Iowa) (2/22) 
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Hawaii bill would establish universal school meals

February 23, 2024

Legislation introduced in Hawaii aims to provide free breakfast and lunch for all students, addressing food insecurity and its impact on health and learning. While widely supported, the main obstacle is the estimated $32 million annual cost, prompting calls for funding to ensure students can focus on education without hunger.
 Full Story: KHON-TV (Honolulu)

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Ohio weighs proposal for universal school meals

February 16, 2024

Lawmakers in Ohio have introduced two education bills, one ensuring free school meals for all students while the other aims to increase the statewide base teacher salary to $50,000 per year. The universal school meal proposal also includes mandates that meals cannot be thrown away after being served to students with meal debt and that the district cannot "publicly identify or stigmatize a student" with meal debt.

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Free school meal effort fails to pass in S.D.

February 15, 2024

South Dakota legislators rejected a bill aimed at covering school meal costs for families near the poverty line who are not eligible for federal programs, despite support from advocacy groups emphasizing the importance of nutrition for students' learning. This marks the second failed attempt, following the rejection of a similar bill, as critics argue against the state subsidizing federal programs.
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Momentum builds for universal school meals in N.Y.

February 15, 2024

Advocates and lawmakers convened at the New York state Capitol to seek increased funding for programs addressing food insecurity, including funding for a universal school meal program, SNAP benefits, Nourish New York and the Hunger Prevention and Nutrition Assistance Program. The collaboration aims to secure additional resources, emphasizing the importance of supporting programs to make a substantial impact on the community.
 Full Story: Spectrum News

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Minn. mulls minimum seat time for school lunch

February 15, 2024

A proposed bill in Minnesota aims to mandate a minimum of 15 minutes of seat time for students in the national school lunch program to eat their lunch. The legislation, if approved, would exclude transition time and be effective from July 1, for the following school year.
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Apply today for SNF professional development scholarships

February 14, 2024

Achieve your school nutrition educational dreams! The School Nutrition Foundation's (SNF) professional development scholarships provide SNA members with funding for tuition and books for the following school year. For details on eligibility, visit the SNF website. The deadline for all professional development scholarships is March 29. Apply today!

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Ill. advocates seek to fund universal school meal program

February 14, 2024

Coalitions in Illinois are urging the General Assembly to allocate funding in the 2025 state budget for the Healthy School Meals for All program, aiming to provide free breakfast and lunches to all students. Despite passing the bill last year, the initiative requires proper funding to address child hunger, affecting over 315,000 children in the state.
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Hawaii considers providing universal school meals

February 14, 2024

Hawaii is considering legislation that would offer free meals to all public school students, potentially reducing child food insecurity and enhancing academic performance. While the state Department of Education expresses concerns about the estimated cost, advocates emphasize the potential positive impact on students' well-being and educational outcomes.
 Full Story: Hawaii Public Radio

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SNA's 2024 Awards: Nominate a colleague today!

February 13, 2024

The nomination period for SNA's 2024 Awards is open. The SNA Awards program highlights the outstanding and important work of SNA members and state affiliates. Directors, Managers, Employees and Industry members are eligible for national and regional awards recognizing their achievements in school foodservice, leadership, membership recruitment and professional development. Click the links for more information, including eligibility requirements and then nominate a colleague -- or yourself -- today! Don't delay -- the submission deadline is March 1
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School Meals for All NC advocates for universal access

February 13, 2024

The School Meals for All NC coalition -- aiming to provide cost-free school meals to all students in North Carolina public schools -- has released resources, including a video featuring educators supporting the initiative. With monthly virtual meetings for advocates and a hunger leaders conference scheduled, the coalition emphasizes the importance of universal school meals in enhancing student performance and nutrition.


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Register for this week's SNA webinar

February 12, 2024

Join SNA's School Meal Advocacy in 2024 webinar (Feb. 14, 3:00 pm ET) to hear experienced school nutrition advocates discuss the SNA 2024 Position Paper. Gain insider tips for advocating on behalf of school meal programs at the 2024 Legislative Action Conference (#LAC24) and throughout the year! All members are encouraged to participate -- especially those attending #LAC24. Register here!
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Proposed bill prohibits cell-based meat in school lunches

February 12, 2024

A recent bill introduced in the US Senate that aims to ban the use of cell-cultured meat in school lunches has been referred to the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry. The office of Sen. Mike Rounds, who co-sponsored the bill, highlighted the food safety risks associated with a "lack of demonstrated research on cell-cultivated protein" as well as a lack of existing guidance from the USDA on the use of cultivated meat in the National School Lunch Program or the School Breakfast Program.
 Full Story: Food Safety Magazine
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School districts prepare for financial challenges

February 8, 2024

As temporary funding sources dwindle and states face worsening financial pictures, school districts are facing familiar challenges such as resource disparities and hiring difficulties, alongside fresh issues like diminishing revenue and the expiration of federal and state relief efforts. Top concerns for school finance officials include the ongoing need for mental health investment, potential staffing cuts as pandemic aid winds down and the increasing complexity of audits for federal relief spending.
 Full Story: Education Week
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Minn. voters support universal school meal program

February 7, 2024

Over 70% of Minnesota voters, spanning various demographics, approve of the legislature's decision to offer free school meals to all students across the state, regardless of income levels. However, the KSTP/SurveyUSA poll finds some concerns about unexpected costs.
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Colo. universal school meals ease financial strain

February 7, 2024

Proposition FF, known as the Healthy School Meals for All program, has been positively impacting local families in Colorado, providing free lunches to all public school students and saving money for families. The initiative, funded by higher taxes on some residents, has received positive feedback from families, alleviating concerns about children going hungry at school and fostering equality among students.

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SNF professional development scholarships are open!

February 6, 2024

Achieve your school nutrition educational dreams! The School Nutrition Foundation's (SNF) professional development scholarships provide SNA members with funding for tuition and books. For details on eligibility, visit the SNF website. The deadline for all professional development scholarships is March 29. Apply today!

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Okla. lawmakers consider universal school meals

February 6, 2024

In response to the escalating school lunch debt in parts of Oklahoma, lawmakers are advocating for a $30 million state-funded universal meal program to ensure that all K-12 students have access, aiming to alleviate financial burdens on families and prevent the debt from going to collections. The proposed initiative seeks to cover the costs and streamline school lunch programs in several districts.
 Full Story: KOKI-TV (Tulsa, Okla.) 
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Minn. school nutrition pros advocate for longer lunchtime

February 6, 2024

The Minnesota School Nutrition Association is urging the state legislature to mandate at least 15 minutes of seat time for all students during the lunch period, aiming to ensure adequate time for meals and reduce food waste. Additionally, they seek state reimbursement for providing free milk to students.

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Check out the newly dropped #NSBW24 resources

February 1, 2024

Hang ten and catch the wave of excitement! National School Breakfast Week (#NSBW24) is hitting the shores from March 4 to 8! Are you ready to bask in the sunshine and share the aloha spirit across your school? SNA has everything you need to make this year's NSBW the best one ever! Paddle over to the SNA website to find all these amazing resources and more.

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Ark. targets childhood hunger in summer

February 1, 2024

Arkansas is set to address childhood hunger by participating in the USDA's Summer EBT program, aiming to provide grocery-buying benefits to over 300,000 eligible children during the summer months. With 1 in 5 Arkansas children facing hunger, the state anticipates an economic impact of over $68 million from the program, while the Non-Congregate Summer Meal Program helps reach families in rural communities.
 Full Story: Public News Service


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Get advocacy tips with SNA's upcoming webinar

January 31, 2024

Don't miss SNA's upcoming webinar "School Meal Advocacy in 2024" on Wednesday, Feb. 14 at 3 p.m. ET, for advocacy tips from school nutrition experts. The webinar will feature a panel of experienced advocates who will review the SNA 2024 Position Paper and accompanying resources and equip participants to effectively champion school meal programs. Plus, if you're attending SNA's upcoming 2024 Legislative Action Conference (#LAC24), it will help you make the most of the conference! And if you're unable to attend the conference--this webinar is designed to ensure your advocacy efforts are impactful throughout the year. Register today.

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N.Y. lawmakers seek full funding of universal school meals

January 30, 2024

N.Y. legislators, in a bipartisan effort, are pushing for an additional $90 million to achieve full funding for universal school meals. Despite a proposed $11 million increase in the governor's budget, advocates stress the importance of ensuring that every student, regardless of income, has access to nutritious meals in schools.
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Foundation to wipe out $1M in school meal debt

January 29, 2024

The Arby's Foundation has initiated a $1 million program to settle unpaid lunch balances for students across the US. With $203,534 already donated to 7,413 students in four metro Atlanta public school districts, the remaining funds will benefit over 47,000 students nationwide, addressing the prevalent issue of unpaid student lunch debts.
 Full Story: Good Morning America
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Conn. lawmakers seek $16M extension for free K-12 meals

January 27, 2024

Connecticut lawmakers Rep. Moira Rader and Sen. Ceci Maher plan to introduce a bill allocating $16 million to extend the free K-12 meal program through June 2025. The initiative, initially funded with federal COVID-19 relief, aims to provide nutritious meals for over 177,000 students.

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NYC school budget cuts slash cafeteria menus

January 24, 2024

New York City Mayor Eric Adams' $60 million cut to the school foods budget is expected to result in the removal of popular items from school cafeteria menus, including cookies, chicken dumplings, and bean and cheese burritos. Students and parents are concerned about the impact on nutrition and the possibility of increased spending outside of schools.
 Full Story: Chalkbeat 

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Conn. advocates seek funding for free school meals

January 25, 2024

School nutrition directors and anti-hunger advocates in Connecticut plan to lobby for ongoing funding in the state legislature to provide free school meals for students. The $16 million allocated for this initiative last year is set to expire, and advocates stress the importance of addressing food insecurity without stigmatizing low-income students.
 Full Story: WNPR-FM (Hartford, Conn.) 
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Va. lawmakers consider free school meal legislation

January 24, 2024

The Virginia House Education Subcommittee unanimously referred a bill that would make school meals free for all public elementary and secondary school students to the Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee. If enacted, the bill would require schools to participate in the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program.
 Full Story: WRIC-TV (Richmond, Va.) 
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SNF professional development scholarships are open!

January 23, 2024

Achieve your school nutrition educational dreams! The School Nutrition Foundation's (SNF) professional development scholarships provide SNA members with funding for tuition and books. For details on eligibility, visit the SNF website. The deadline for all professional development scholarships is March 29. Apply today!

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Senate debates whole milk for schools

January 23, 2024

The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, which seeks to reintroduce whole milk in schools, faces resistance from the USDA, which argues it contradicts established health guidelines. The bill, previously approved by the House, aims to exempt fluid milk from saturated fat calculations, emphasizing bipartisan support and potential nutritional benefits.
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Wash. lawmaker proposes universal school meal program

January 21, 2024

A Washington state lawmaker is proposing legislation to provide free school meals for all K-12 students in the state regardless of income levels, citing the positive impact on student performance and reduced disruptions in the classroom. The estimated cost of $110 million per year is viewed as a worthwhile investment, aligning with the success of similar programs in eight other states.
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Free school meals linked to fewer suspensions

January 21, 2024

A recent study reveals that free school meals significantly reduce the risk of student suspensions. The research, conducted by the University of North Carolina and the US Census Bureau, indicates a 10% decline in suspension likelihood -- 22% among high school students.
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Unlock SNA's Conference Video Series

January 19, 2024

Jumpstart your learning this year with SNA's Conference Video Series! Get the best of the Association's conferences on demand with 10 insightful sessions led by esteemed school nutrition professionals who share their expertise and knowledge on a variety of topics. Learn more.
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Apply for an SNF Equipment Grant

January 18, 2024

Applications for the School Nutrition Foundation's (SNF) Equipment Grants are now open! Thanks to our generous industry sponsors, the total value of equipment grants being awarded this year to selected SNA members is over half a million dollars. SNF Equipment Grants offer an opportunity for your school or school district to be awarded new kitchen equipment, cafeteria furniture or décor for a total upgrade of your school's current kitchen or dining areas! Apply now before the March 29 deadline.
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Dive into the #NSBW24 Shop!

January 12, 2024

The #NSBW24 Shop is open! The sun is rising on the 2024 National School Breakfast Week (#NSBW24), March 4 to 8, and for this event, we're catching the wave with the theme "Surf's Up with School Breakfast." Check out the themed decor, giveaways and merchandise. Start shopping today.
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School Nutrition magazine: Read the January/February 2024 issue

January 11, 2024

Many of us see the new year as an opportunity to commit to bettering ourselves. Each year, the first of January provides a metaphorical fresh start, with new opportunities, experiences and changes on the horizon. Of course, that also paves the way for new challenges and turmoil down the road -- but what if you could get ahead of those future stressors before they overwhelm you? In this issue of School Nutrition, we're focusing on exactly that. You'll find tips on stress prevention, so you can head into the new year prepared to overcome or avoid potential stressors before they drag you too far down. Read the January/February 2024 issue.
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USDASummerProgram

Jan. 8, 2024

The USDA's Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer program, launching this summer, is set to provide $40 per child each month to eligible families during the summer -- potentially benefiting 29 million school-aged children. While over 30 states plan to enroll, some, including Iowa and Nebraska, have declined, citing costs and existing programs.
 Full Story: K-12 Dive (1/4) 
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Join this week's webinar: Recruitment, onboarding and retention strategies

Jan. 8, 2024

Start off the new year with a joint webinar (2 p.m. ET on Wednesday, Jan. 10) hosted by the School Nutrition Association (SNA) and the Association of Nutrition & Foodservice Professionals (ANFP). Staffing continues to be a challenge for foodservice professionals no matter the setting. Join four industry professionals as they discuss their experience in the staffing areas of recruitment, onboarding and retention. Learn more and reserve your spot.
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Dive into the #NSBW24 Shop

Jan. 5, 2024

The #NSBW24 Shop is open! The sun is rising on the 2024 National School Breakfast Week (#NSBW24), March 4 to 8, and for this event, we're catching the wave with the theme "Surf's Up with School Breakfast." Check out the themed décor, giveaways and merchandise. Start shopping today.
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Catch up on professional development with the SNA Conference Video Series

Jan. 4, 2024

With the SNA Conference Video Series, you'll get the best of the Association's conferences on demand at your fingertips! This series features 10 insightful sessions led by esteemed school nutrition professionals who share their expertise and knowledge on a variety of topics. And you can bundle and save! In this bundle, you have the flexibility to access all 10 videos and earn 7.75 CEUs at a discounted price. Access the bundle of all 10 videos here. You also have the option to buy the sessions individually.
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Unleash your creativity in 2024 with SNA's Promotion Calendar

Jan. 3, 2024

Attention, SNA members! Let your imagination run wild with SNA's Promotion Calendar -- designed to take your school meal program promotions to a whole new level of fun and appeal. Sponsored by Conagra Foodservice and presented by School Nutrition magazine, this amazing resource is bursting with fantastic events, commemorations and celebration ideas that will transform your school's dining experience this year.
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Ind. schools transform students' meal experience

Jan. 2, 2024

The Patachou Foundation initiated a new school meal program in two Indianapolis charter schools, focusing on providing freshly made, high-quality breakfast, lunch and snacks at no cost to the students. The initiative aims to enhance student learning by improving the quality of school meals, resulting in increased student satisfaction, improved attendance rates and reduced behavior issues, as part of a model that involves restaurant-style kitchens and renovations in participating schools.
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Give yourself the gift of SNF's LEAD training

Dec. 19., 2023

Did you hear? There's a new LEAD to Succeed™ training on "Influence & Persuasion." Hone your leadership skills and earn CEUs with "Influence & Persuasion," the latest training from the School Nutrition Foundation's LEAD to Succeed™ program. Available to SNA members and non-members at no cost! Visit the SNA TrainingZone to log in to your account, or create a free non-member account to access the training.
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Survey highlights drug use among US teens

Dec. 19, 2023

Results from the Monitoring the Future survey revealed that adolescent substance use in 2023 stayed below pre-pandemic levels, highlighting that abstaining, or not using, marijuana, alcohol and nicotine increased for 12th graders, with 62.6% reporting abstaining from any use of these substances. Researchers also noted that the percentage remained stable for 8th and 10th graders, with 87% and 76.9% reporting abstaining from any use of marijuana, alcohol and nicotine over the past month.
 Full Story: Healio (free registration) (12/14) 

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N.Y. lawmakers push for universal school meals

Dec. 19, 2023

Legislators and other childhood hunger advocates in New York are promoting adding the Healthy School Meals For All program to the state's Fiscal Year 2025 budget. The move would fund and mandate free school lunches for all students, regardless of their family's income, and the law aims to ensure that all students have access to healthy meals during the school day.

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Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act passes House

Dec. 18, 2023

The House of Representatives passed the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, allowing the reintroduction of whole milk in school cafeterias and overturning regulations implemented in 2012. The bill, which permits a variety of milk options, now moves to the Senate for consideration.
 Full Story: The Hill (12/13),  Lancaster Farming (Pa.) (12/13) 

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Catch up on research and best practices with JCN&M

Dec. 16, 2023

The Journal of Child Nutrition & Management (JCN&M), SNA's peer-reviewed academic publication, is back with its Fall 2023 issue, now available on SNA's website. JCN&M features scholarly articles that will keep you up to date on the latest child nutrition research and best practices.
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Legislation would expand milk choices in schools

Dec. 12, 2023

Congress is expected to take up the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2023, which would amend existing nutritional guidelines for schools to allow more whole milk to be served. Advocates say whole milk is nutritious and should be a choice in school cafeterias.
 Full Story: DairyReporter (12/11) 
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Federal government looks at ways to reduce food waste

Dec. 12, 2023

A new food waste reduction draft strategy from the FDA, USDA and EPA sets four objectives and potential measures to support the goal of cutting food waste and food loss in half by 2030. Strategies include investing in transportation optimization technology, whole crop purchasing, consumer education, expanded food donation programs, improved organic waste recycling infrastructure and growing the market for products that make use of recycled organic waste.

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Make a splash with #NSBW24 merch

Dec. 4, 2023

It's time to begin your plans for 2024 National School Breakfast Week (#NSBW24). The #NSBW24 theme "Surf's Up with School Breakfast" is intended to inspire you to create a celebration of delicious and nutritious meals. Plus, don't forget to check out the official #NSBW24 shop -- you'll find a sea of giveaways for students and staff, decor for your foodservice space, official merchandise and more.

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Help spotlight the importance of school lunch

Nov. 30, 2023

Did you know 1 in 8 kids in America lives in a household without consistent access to adequate food? School lunches don't just keep kids healthy-they keep kids from being hungry so they can learn. The Made with School Lunch campaign, from SNA and National Dairy Council, brings awareness to the massive need for school meals -- and how school meals make it possible for all kids to do the most important thing of all... grow up! Check out the videos, graphics, posters and social media posts to help you get the word out. Learn more.
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State News

Nov. 28, 2023

?? Colorado Senate bill SB002 establishes Colorado’s participation in Summer EBT and designates the state Department of Human Services as the lead agency responsible for its administration.
  • The bill also designates a partnership with the Department of Education to develop outreach plans and offer technical assistance to SFAs.
?? Wisconsin Senate bill SB720 provides additional state funding for schools that offer free school breakfast and lunch to all students.
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Secret Shoppers' top product picks at #ANC23

Nov. 17, 2023

School Nutrition magazine sent K-12 operators (our "Secret Shoppers") into the Exhibit Hall at this year's Annual National Conference in Denver, Colo., to scope out their favorite K-12 products on the show floor. These volunteers represented districts and schools from Portland, Ore., to central Florida. Armed with the knowledge of what kids crave and what solutions schools need, they brought back their top picks for 2023. Check out this year's Secret Shopper picks (make sure to log into your SNA account!).
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Read the Fall issue of the Journal of Child Nutrition & Management

Nov. 14, 2023

The Journal of Child Nutrition & Management (JCN&M), SNA's peer-reviewed academic publication, is back with its Fall 2023 issue, now available on SNA's website. JCN&M features scholarly articles that will keep you up to date on the latest child nutrition research and best practices.
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Wis. coalition proposes universal school meal legislation

Nov. 8, 2023

The Healthy School Meals for All Wisconsin Coalition has introduced Assembly Bill 805, which seeks to provide free breakfast and lunch for all students in the state and enable schools to receive state reimbursement for these meals. This initiative aims to address food insecurity among students and ensure they have their basic needs met to enhance their educational potential.

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SN magazine: Discover fresh strategies for your cafeteria

Nov. 8, 2023

Get inspired! In the November/December 2023 issue of School Nutrition, we're taking a look at fresh strategies you can take to improve your foodservice space, incorporate new products or resources, or simply rethink your approach to how you've always done things. Log into your SNA account and start reading the November/December 2023 issue today!

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SNA Position Paper Survey

Nov. 8, 2023

? Don’t forget to take the survey! On October 24, all SNA members received an email with a unique link to the SNA 2024 Position Paper Survey. Your input is critical in shaping a strong school nutrition advocacy agenda in the upcoming BIG policy year. Participants could win one of two FREE trips to #LAC24!

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How does Biden executive order address AI in schools?

Nov. 4, 2023

An executive order on AI signed this week by President Joe Biden has several directives that address the use of the technology in schools, requiring US Department of Justice officials to work with federal civil rights officials to prevent potential tech-driven discrimination. The order also requires equity-focused AI-use guidance from the US Department of Education -- including an AI tool kit -- as well as requirements that tech companies test their products for safety and data privacy, particularly products that can monitor online activity.


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Unleash your creativity with the 2023-24 Promotion Calendar

Nov. 4, 2023

Attention, SNA members! Let your imagination run wild with the 2023-24 Promotion Calendar -- designed to take your school meal program promotions to a whole new level of fun and appeal. Sponsored by Conagra Foodservice and presented by School Nutrition magazine, this amazing resource is bursting with fantastic events, commemorations and celebration ideas that will transform your school's dining experience.
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USDA: Child food insecurity rises in US

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) 

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Report: After-school meal participation falls 23%

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) 

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KANSAS SENATOR CONFRONTS BIDEN OVER SCHOOL LUNCHES

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
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Number of food-insecure households in US increasing

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) 


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Take your career to new heights: SNS Credentialing Program

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.
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Fla. students enlisted to taste-test school menu

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)  
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Farm-to-school programs bring fresh food to cafeterias

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) 
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Bill aims to increase federal school meal reimbursements

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) 
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Join the #ANC24 speaker lineup!

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.
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Legislation update: School Meals for All

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.


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Friday fun: Check out #ANC23 highlights!

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.
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USDA expands free school meals for low-income students

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) 
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SN magazine: Teaching & reaching adult learners

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.


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Alaska districts receive federal nutrition grants

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) 


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Learn to LEAD with intelligence!

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.


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Minn. district faces lunch challenges

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.
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Take your career to new heights: SNS Credentialing Program

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.


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S.D. representative aims to curb school meal debt

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) 


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Survey: Students need longer school lunchtimes

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) 


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La. schools face challenges providing free meals

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.
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Your #NSLW23 arsenal: Resources for a legendary School Lunch Week!

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!


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Fall produce rounds out a heart-healthy diet

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) 
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RD shares go-to nutritious, budget-friendly recipe

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)  

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N.Y. allocates $134M to expand school meal access

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) 
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Officials want schools to offer Medicaid services

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) 


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Md. district offers free, reduced-price meals

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) 

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Support builds for universal school meal legislation in N.J.

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.

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States adapt to funding changes for school meals

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 

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Poll: Majority of Americans back universal school meals

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 

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More states provide universal school meals

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 
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SN Plus: The dollars and sense of unpaid meal charges

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.

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4 states require opioid, fentanyl education

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)  
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Make every day a celebration in the school cafeteria!

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.

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USDA grants bring more fresh produce to schools

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.

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Ky. district offers free meals to all students

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)  
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Free school meals provided to students in Ga. district

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)
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More states make school meals permanently free

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) 
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Step into a world of learning with the SNA Podcast

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.

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New SNA State Legislative Report

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.


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SNA's Food Allergy Resource Center

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.
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How school nutrition pros adapt to USDA sodium limits

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)


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Membership Starts with ME: Annual recruitment campaign

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.
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Earn while you learn! Gain CEUs with SNA's podcast

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.

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Mich. allocates $160M for free school meals

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) 
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S.C. considers reinstating free school meals

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) 

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Experts: School lunch vital for student focus

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) 
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Minn. district to forgive student debt amid universal meals

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)
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Workers are more loyal to themselves than the company

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)  
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Download printable "Made with School Lunch" posters

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.

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SNF resources from the Breakfast in the Classroom Project

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:
 
  • The PBIC Operations & Equipment Guide is designed to help you choose the right equipment for your breakfast after the bell program, regardless of delivery model or grade level.
  • Are you considering implementing a breakfast-after-the-bell program? SNF, along with our Partners, created filterable resources by audience or resource type -- to help you find videos, research, white papers and more. The PBIC developed these resources and tools to provide guidance for everything from menus to student activities to make your program a success.


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Pa. enacts universal school breakfasts

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)  
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Study shows benefits of school nutrition standards

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)  
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Number of children losing Medicaid since April hits 500K

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 
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Mass. families find relief via universal school meals

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) 
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More Texas students will receive free school meals

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) 


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Spread the word: America is Made with School Lunch!

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.
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Minn. SNA conference embraces universal school meals

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.


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How schools entice students to eat lunches

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) 

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$6.3M Ga. grant keeps meals free for qualified families

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) 

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Free school meals expanded in Conn. for upcoming year

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.


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Universal School Meals

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)  


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Looking for a smarter way to Smart Snack?

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).
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States reinstate free school meals -- some permanently

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) 
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Mass. extends free school meals

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) 
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Download printable "Made with School Lunch" posters

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.


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High school employs students to fill staffing gaps

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) 
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Students advocate in D.C. for school meal changes

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)  
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Save your spot at this week's free leadership training

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.
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Colo. schools launch universal meals program

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.


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Start listening: SNA's new podcast is here!

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.
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Pa. considers universal school meals

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.

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N.M. signs universal school meals into law

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) 
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National universal school meal movement grows

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) 

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Read the latest SN Plus: Creative SN staff development for the win!

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.
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Kan. senator advocates for whole milk in schools

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.

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N.C. district expands free meal access under CEP

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) 

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Become an SNA subject matter expert (SME)!

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.
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N.D. moves to expand free school meals

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.
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GAO report highlights Food in Schools challenges

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) 
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Advocates seek return of whole milk in school meals

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) 
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2022 N.C. Teacher of the Year advocates for universal meals

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)  
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ANC prepares school nutrition pros for universal meals

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
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Mich. implements "Healthy School Meals for All"

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.
 Full Story: WOOD-TV (Grand Rapids, Mich.) (7/3) 
Mich. implements "Healthy School Meals for All" 
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Minn. prepares for universal school meals

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.
 Full Story: WCCO-TV 
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