Fueling Success Through Professional Development in School Nutrition In the ever-evolving world of school nutrition, staying ahead means more than just serving meals—it’s about cultivating a team that’s skilled, motivated, and ready to meet the needs of every student. Professional development isn’t just a box to check, it’s the secret sauce that keeps your program thriving. Here are some actionable tips to ensure your team is always prepared to serve nutritious and delicious meals: • Leverage Free Resources: Organizations like the Institute of Child Nutrition (ICN) and USDA’s Team Nutrition offer free training modules tailored to school nutrition professionals. From culinary skills to program compliance, these resources are goldmines for growth. • Create a Training Calendar: Consistency is key. Develop an annual training schedule that aligns with USDA’s professional standards. Include sessions on food safety, Offer Versus Serve (OVS), and customer service to keep your team sharp and compliant. • Incorporate Hands-On Learning : Host in-house culinary workshops where staff can practice new recipes or techniques. This not only boosts skills but also fosters team camaraderie. • Encourage Certification: Support your team in pursuing certifications like the School Nutrition Specialist (SNS). It’s a win-win—staff gain confidence, and your program gains credibility. • Celebrate Success: Recognize staff achievements, whether it’s mastering a new skill or hitting participation goals. A little appreciation goes a long way in boosting morale and retention. Investing in your team’s development isn’t just about meeting requirements—it’s about creating a culture of excellence that ensures every child receives the best possible meal, every single day. Let’s keep raising the bar!
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I have AskJen all set up, she and I had a wonderful conversation about ServSafe training yesterday and today we'll be working on product formulation. She's a lunch hero too!" Judi Reynolds Director of Child Nutrition Services Fallbrook Union High School District
I've used AskJen pretty much every day, multiple times a day since getting it Wednesday last week. This is a great program/ resource. Just wanted to let you know how helpful it's been."
Kelsey Gartner MLD, RD, LDN Director of Food & Nutrition Services Perkiomen Valley School District
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