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School Nutrition Bulletin 2223-16

Wednesday, October 26, 2022

Announcements from the WI DPI School Nutrition Team (SNT)

Updates from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
 

Farm to School Champions Needed! Apply for a Grant Today!

October is more than a time for crisp temperatures and vibrant autumn leaves. It’s also Farm to School Month, when USDA joins schools, farms, and community organizations across the country to celebrate the role of farm to school programs in getting healthy, locally grown foods onto children’s trays through child nutrition programs, including school breakfast and lunch.

Schools, farmers, and other organizations that help produce or serve meals to kids through USDA’s Child Nutrition Programs can apply now for a USDA Farm to School Grant. In 2023, USDA will award approximately $12 million in grants through a competitive process that provides bonus points to projects operated by and serving communities that are underserved, marginalized, or adversely affected by poverty and inequality. USDA invites all eligible and interested organizations to apply by January 6, 2023.

The upcoming round of grants will build on the $70 Million Investment in farm to school that USDA made this year, which includes the first-ever Non-competitive Grants for states to assist their child nutrition programs in using more local foods.

Updates from the DPI School Nutrition Team
 

Around the World in 80 Trays - Register Now!
 

around the world in 80 trays logo
Join the School Nutrition Team and school food authorities (SFAs) around the State on a culinary adventure to celebrate the diverse cultures of Wisconsin students! The annual Around the World in 80 Trays event will take place on January 16-20, 2023 and encourages schools to serve a globally inspired dish(es) to students during that week. Register for Around the World in 80 Trays to help us reach our goal of 80 participating SFAs and visit the Event Webpage for activities and menu inspiration. New resources, including a new week of menus and recipes will be posted soon!

Other Updates and Information


Successful Implementation of Culturally Inclusive School Meals

A school menu that features culturally relevant meals accomplishes two things: 1) cultural and religious foodways are met, and 2) the school community is exposed to an exciting diversity of foods and flavors. As the school-age population becomes increasingly food-savvy, culturally inclusive meals are a win-win. During this webinar, part two of a two-part series, we will be joined by leaders from school districts in Michigan, California, and Washington state, who will provide examples of identifying and implementing culturally inclusive meals in schools.

SNA Key Area(s): 1 – Nutrition, 2 – Operations, 3 – Administration

USDA Professional Standards Code(s): 1100 – Menu Planning, 2100 – Food Production, 2400 – Purchasing/Procurement, 3200 – Program Management

Learning Objective: Identify at least two strategies for successful implementation of new culturally diverse meals on the school menu.

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Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction
Jill K. Underly, PhD, State Superintendent
125 S Webster Street
Madison, WI 53703
(608) 266-3390 • (800) 441-4563