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Thursday, May 15, 2025 *Schedule is subject to change 7:00am - 8:00am Breakfast Provided Cultivating Commitment: Empowering Passionate People for a Purpose-Driven Program - Kayla McDaniel, MS, NDTR; Megan Bates, SNS
(Hathorne) In today’s school nutrition programs, success depends on more than just nutritious meals — it requires dedicated, passionate staff who believe in the mission of feeding the future. This session explores innovative, practical strategies to recruit and retain school nutrition professionals in a competitive labor market. Learn how to cultivate a purpose-driven workplace culture, align roles with individual passions, and implement recognition, growth, and support systems that keep your team engaged and energized. Whether you're building a team from scratch or revitalizing an existing one, you’ll leave with tools and inspiration to create a thriving workforce that’s motivated by more than just a paycheck — they’re driven by purpose.
Serving Success: Enhance Nutrition & Reimbursement with Afterschool Meals - Kayla Snyder, Hunger Solutions NY
(Geyser) Schools that offer snacks to students in afterschool programs may be eligible to serve a complete meal. The At-Risk Afterschool Meal component of the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) is a win-win for students and schools. Offering a complete after-school meal helps improve student nutrition and bolsters school food revenue with nearly 4x the reimbursement of NSLP snacks alone. Join Hunger Solutions New York to learn more about CACFP eligibility, program flexibilities, and how to get started. Campfire Chat: Continue the Conversation about CEP - Caitlin Lazarski, MS, RD, SNS, Kate Dorr, RD, MBA; Patrick Kenneally
(Orenda) After hearing from panelists earlier in the day, join us for a deeper, more interactive conversation focused on the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP). This informal session offers a space to ask follow-up questions, share your own challenges, and explore specific scenarios with panelists who have firsthand experience. Whether you're considering CEP or looking to strengthen your current approach with the possibility of universal meals in NY, this is your chance to get real-time feedback, tips, and support from peers and practitioners in the field. State Agency Round Tables (Gallery) Connect directly with representatives from OGS, NYSED, and Agriculture & Markets in this interactive roundtable-style session. Held in two timeframes to allow for deeper conversations, these discussions will give attendees the opportunity to ask questions, raise concerns, and gain clarity on key issues affecting school nutrition programs across New York. Whether you're seeking updates, troubleshooting challenges, or looking to strengthen agency relationships, this is your chance to engage in meaningful dialogue with the state agencies that help shape your work.
9:30am - 10:30am Educational Breakout Sessions Procurement and Direct Diversion - Marianne Dayton, SNS
(Orenda) Make every dollar count! This session dives into how to strategically allocate, spend, and track your USDA Foods entitlement to get the most value for your program. Learn how Direct Diversion works, how to plan effectively throughout the year, and how to navigate procurement decisions that support both compliance and cost savings. A Place at the Table: Celebrating Various Food Cultures to Drive Participation - Kayla McDaniel, MS, NDTR
(Hathorne) This session will provide valuable insights into understanding the diverse cultural and religious dietary needs of your student population, fostering an inclusive and equitable dining experience. Attendees will learn how approach adaptation of their school menus to reflect cultural/religious preferences and ensure accessibility for students with various dietary restrictions. By exploring strategies for creating a welcoming and supportive food environment, participants will be equipped to promote a sense of belonging for all students. Attendees will leave with practical tools to enhance equity, inclusion, and student well-being through thoughtful menu planning and community engagement. Vending 101: Reimbursable Meals Unpacked - Caitlin Lazarski, MS, RD, SNS (Geyser) As school nutrition programs seek innovative ways to increase participation and meet students where they are, vending machines have emerged as a powerful tool for serving reimbursable meals—anytime, anywhere. But how do you ensure compliance with USDA meal pattern requirements while navigating logistics, equipment, food safety, and student appeal? In this session, participants will unpack the essentials of launching a successful reimbursable vending program. From planning and procurement to promotion and production, you’ll learn how to implement a vending solution that enhances access, maintains integrity, and supports program growth. Whether you're just curious or ready to launch, this session will leave you with the knowledge and confidence to make vending work for your program. State Agency Round Tables (Gallery) Connect directly with representatives from OGS, NYSED, and Agriculture & Markets in this interactive roundtable-style session. Held in two timeframes to allow for deeper conversations, these discussions will give attendees the opportunity to ask questions, raise concerns, and gain clarity on key issues affecting school nutrition programs across New York. Whether you're seeking updates, troubleshooting challenges, or looking to strengthen agency relationships, this is your chance to engage in meaningful dialogue with the state agencies that help shape your work.
Scratch Cooking with Confidence: Mastering Best Practices for Serving Local Beef on School Menus - Julie Raway, MPH, RDN, CDN, SNS, FAND |
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