FSNA Healthy Harvest Spring 2026 Issue 1

harvest healthy From The Florida School Nutrition Association Spring 2026

What’s Inside SPRING 2026 | ISSUE 1

FEATURED ARTICLE Advocacy in Action: Standing Up for Florida’s Students One Meal at a Time

Miami-Dade County Public Schools Students Lead the Way at the Miami-Dade Student Food Show Time For Tea With Rachel: Why Social Media Matters More Than You Think In School Nutrition

Hillsborough County Schools: Elevates Student Voice Through the School Lunch Experience

8 Hunger Doesn’t Get a Summer Vacation 10 Leadership Beyond the Desk: Celebrate Excellence With us 17 The Heart of FSNA Membership

21 Chapter Chatter /

Serving Up Smiles all Summer Long

Produced by

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OUR MISSION To advance child nutrition programs that promote wellness and academic success, while promoting leadership opportunities to members.

2025–2026 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Roy Pistone President

Kevin Thornton President-Elect

Calbrail “CB” Banner Executive Director

Valerie Hansen Secretary/Treasurer

Tim Thompson Director Chair

Vacant Director Chair-Elect

Josh Fowler SIP Representative

Jose Herreria SIP Resprenative-Elect

John Tyre Region I Director

Blake Dicks Region II Director

Jamie Dicks Region II Director-Elect

Justin Mundet Region III Director

Vera Torres Region IV Director

Regina Thoma Region IV Director-Elect

Caron Rowe Director At Large I

Gwen McCarty-Freier Director At Large II

Julia Oberst Director At Large II-Elect

Vacant FS Employee/Manager Chair

Vianka Colin FDACS Director

Sean Ellis Admin Supervisor Chair

Patrick Howell Admin Supervisor Chair-Elect

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A MESSAGE FROM THE 2025-2026 FSNA President

Hi FSNA Members! I hope each of you had a well- deserved Holiday Break and are ready to tackle the second half of the school year. For those of you that attended our “Voices At The Table” in January, it was a successful event that brought great networking and dialogue and an opportunity to meet with our legislators to discuss important issues affecting our School Nutrition

Programs. Issues discussed included: Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) HR 1 – Proposed Federal Changes that would require State cost-sharing due to Florida’s high error rate* • SNAP enrollment may significantly decrease. • Declining SNAP participation plus Reduced CEP percentages could result

in financial instability. New Dietary Guidelines & Scratch Cooking • Florida supports the updated Dietary Guidelines, yet Scratch Cooking presents challenges such as

school kitchen equipment makeovers, labor, and culinary training. These areas require more funding and realistic implementation timelines

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Ultra-Processed Foods • With the discussion of limiting Ultra Processed Foods, School Nutrition Programs need clear and concise definition that will align with existing USDA Meal Standards Funding and Financial Sustainability • With the challenges School Nutrition Programs are facing: • Increased Food and Labor Costs • Kitchen Equipment Replacement Costs • Increased Operating Costs School Nutrition Programs need: • Increased Federal Reimbursement Rates • Funding for Capital Equipment • Implement inflation-index funding formulas • Protection for CEP Funding I would like to recognize and thank Pete Ryan and our friends at Peterson Farms for sponsoring our “Voices At The Table”. In addition, I would like to thank the following guest speakers: • Vianka Colin, FDACS Director of Food, Nutrition and Wellness • Sky Beard, Florida Director of No Kid Hungry • Sarah Busk Suskey, Partner from The Advocacy Partners Their important updates and concise summaries of areas affecting school nutrition were immeasurable. Finally, a BIG Shoutout to our FSNA Legislative Committee Members: John Tyre, our Legislative Committee Chair from Okaloosa County, Shani Hall from Hillsborough County and Jamie McCarthy from Palm Beach County for their OUTSTANDING work in preparing the talking points for our attendees. I am excited to inform our members that registration has now opened for our Annual Conference, “The Derby Dash”. The

conference will be held at the beautiful World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida from May 14-16, 2026. CB Banner, along with her team and our Conference Planning Committee have put together a second to none venue that will again emphasize our catch phrase, “Bringing the Wow”. A friendly reminder to our local Chapters who are working hard on the President’s Initiatives for this year. As a refresher the Initiatives, again are as follows: 1. Increase your local chapter membership by 5% 2. Invite local Legislators to join you for School Lunch and/or School Breakfast (remember to take photos or record a video of their visit) 3. Hold fundraisers to ensure your members have the necessary financial support to attend the 2026 Derby Dash 4. Expand your local chapter’s media presence to showcase your Community Involvement and Promote School Nutrition In closing, I want to, again, give a BIG Shoutout to our INCREDIBLE FSNA Board Members, our FSNA Team led by CB Banner and our wonderful Industry Partners. These true “Difference Makers” have and continue to make a profound impact in the lives of our children and I am extremely grateful to work alongside them for the betterment of our Association. With Much Appreciation For ALL You Do, Roy R. Pistone II, RDN, MEd, SNS 2025-2026 FSNA President

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY SCHOOLS Elevates Student Voice Through the School Lunch Experience

Student feedback plays an important role in shaping school menus in Hillsborough County Public Schools. As part of its preparation for the upcoming school year, Hillsborough County Public Schools recently hosted its School Lunch Experience, bringing together students from elementary, middle, and high school levels to sample potential menu items under consideration for next year’s offerings. During the event, students had the opportunity to try a variety of items and share their honest feedback on what they would and wouldn’t want to see on their school menus. Their reactions, opinions, and suggestions

help the school nutrition team better understand which menu items resonate most with students across grade levels. For a district the size of Hillsborough County, thoughtful menu planning is essential. The school nutrition team serves a diverse student population across hundreds of schools, making student feedback an important part of shaping menus that will be well received. The School Lunch Experience reflects Hillsborough County’s commitment to student centered menu planning. By including students directly in the process, the district gains valuable insight into the preferences of the

students it serves while also giving them a voice in shaping the cafeteria experience. Bringing together students from different grade levels allows the team to capture a range of perspectives. What appeals to elementary students may differ from what excites middle or high schoolers, and hearing those differences firsthand helps guide menu decisions for the year ahead. Through this collaborative approach, Hillsborough County continues to strengthen its school nutrition program while keeping student voice at the center of the conversation.

Hunger doesn’ t take a summer vacation.

When the school year ends, access to the school meals children rely on every day can become more difficult to access – and for families already stretched thin, the pressure they feel is immediate. In Florida, 1 in 5 kids face hunger , but together, we can ensure that all children have access to the food they need to … A recent statewide poll conducted for No Kid Hungry Florida found that more than half of parents worry about providing enough nutritious food during the summer months. Two-thirds say making ends meet becomes even harder when school is out, and 68% report taking on additional debt due to increased food costs when school meals are less accessible. That’s why expanding summer meal access – especially in rural communities – is so critical. No Kid Hungry Florida is committed to strengthening access to summer meals. One way we’re doing that is through our Non-Congregate Summer Grant , which supports sponsors operating the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) or the Seamless Summer Option (SSO) who are expanding non-congregate summer meal programs in rural areas. This funding helps sponsors: • Launch new non-congregate programs in areas with gaps in service • Add new meal sites • Increase accessibility by extending hours, increasing meals served, shifting service times, or improving site locations • Maximize operations to serve the allowable number of meals each week throughout the summer Applications are due Monday, May 4, 2026 at 11:59 PM ET. Funding decisions will be made on a rolling basis until all funds are distributed — so we strongly encourage applicants to apply as early as possible. How to Apply: Visit the No Kid Hungry Grants Portal at https://nokidhungry.my.site.com Access code: FLSchoolRNC26 For More Information feel free to reach out to us with any questions you may have at nokidhungryfl@strength.org . And even if this opportunity isn’t the right fit, we’re always happy to connect about your summer plans and explore other ways to support your work.

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Non-Congregate Summer Grant Now Open: No Kid Hungry Florida Non-Congregate Summer Grant Opportunity No Kid Hungry Florida is excited to announce that applications are now open for our 2026 Summer Grant Opportunity! This funding is available to sponsors operating the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) or the Seamless Summer Option (SSO) who are working to expand non-congregate summer meal programs in rural communities. We’re looking to support sponsors who are ready to grow their impact by: • Launching new non-congregate programs in areas with gaps in service • Adding new non-congregate meal sites • Increasing accessibility of existing sites (extending hours, increasing meals served, shifting service times, or improving locations) • Maximizing operations to serve the allowable number of meals each week throughout the summer Grant amounts will vary based on the size and need of each applicant. Applications are due Monday, May 4, 2026 at 11:59 PM ET. Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis and decisions will continue until all funds are distributed — so we strongly encourage interested sponsors to apply as early as possible. How to Apply: Visit the No Kid Hungry Grants Portal at https://nokidhungry.my.site.com Please do not use Internet Explorer or Microsoft Edge when registering or working within the portal. Use access code: FLCommunityRNC26 Applicants will be asked to provide: • A detailed description of program objectives • Information about current and planned Summer 2026 operations • Details on past program operations • A detailed budget • Strategies to elevate and address the needs of people of color in your community To view a sample application, please click here . If you’re planning for Summer 2026 and looking to expand your reach, we encourage you to apply. And even if this opportunity isn’t the right fit, we’re always happy to connect about your work and explore other ways to support your efforts. Program questions: nokidhungryfl@strength.org Technical support: GrantsHelpDesk@strength.org We look forward to partnering with you to help ensure more kids have access to meals this summer.

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Leadership

By: Donette Worthy

School nutrition is about more than menus, meal counts, and compliance. It is about people. It is about the people who serve the next generation. It is about the people who show up every day behind the scenes, often without accolades or recognition. It is a hidden gem within the school system that many do not fully realize exists. It is the team behind the curtain; the team a school simply could not function without. Every day, school nutrition professionals across the country show up early, stay late, adapt quickly, and serve meals with care. They do this while navigating staffing shortages, tight budgets, changing regulations, and crowded cafeterias. To handle all of this day after day, a capable team must be built first. But building an effective team does not end when the right people are hired. That is only the beginning. Effective teams are molded, supported, and developed over time. This work requires intentional, consistent leadership. It takes leaders who are willing to pour into their team day in and day out. At times, this level of commitment can feel daunting and exhausting. Supporting people well takes effort, patience, and presence. But in the end, it is always worth it. The programs that truly succeed are not the ones with perfect conditions. They are the ones built on supported teams. They are able to care for students well because leadership first chose to care for the people serving them.

Beyond the Desk

At times, this level of commitment can feel daunting and exhausting. Supporting people well takes effort, patience, and presence. But in the end, it is always worth it. The programs that truly succeed are not the ones with perfect conditions. They are the ones built on supported teams. They are able to care for students well because leadership first chose to care for the people serving them. Leadership That Shows Up The most impactful directors and supervisors are not only found behind a desk or sitting in meetings. They are found in cafeterias. They are willing to step in at a moment’s notice, put on gloves and a hair net, and help when help is needed. Leadership does not lose respect by getting dirty. It gains it. When leaders step in, ask what needs to be done, and work beside their teams during a busy lunch period, something powerful happens. Whether they are covering a call out or helping solve problems in real time, trust is built. Staff feel valued. Morale

improves. Teams shift from simply working to truly working together. When I served as a Director, I often told my team, “My job is to set you up for success and not failure so you can take care of the children.” That belief changes everything. It shifts leadership from control to collaboration and keeps the focus where it belongs. For collaboration to happen, leadership must be willing to listen. At one point, I was responsible for thirty-five schools with only one supervisor at the central office to help me. We could not be in thirty-five schools at the same time, and most days we were putting out fires. I never wanted my staff to feel unseen simply That is when we created an Advisory Committee made up of managers from the elementary, middle, and high school levels who were voted on by their peers. This group allowed us to collaborate on new ideas, discuss what was working and what was not, and address challenges before they became larger problems. The committee because I could not physically be in their kitchens regularly.

did not replace regular manager meetings, but it did allow trusted team members to help shape and strengthen the program. We also began holding assistant manager meetings, giving those team members opportunities to grow, develop leadership skills, and prepare for future roles. Investing in people early created a stronger leadership pipeline and more prepared teams. Leadership that shows up looks different in every district, but the heart of it is the same. It is about being present, listening with intention, and creating space for others to grow. Support Is More Than a Word Support is not just something we talk about. It is something teams feel. You cannot expect high- level performance from a team that is constantly working without the tools, training, and support they need. Passion alone cannot carry a program. People must be set up to win. Effective teams are built when leadership is intentional about providing

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resources. That includes functioning equipment, clear procedures, realistic expectations, and training that builds confidence instead of stress. When staff are forced to constantly make do or figure things out on their own, frustration and burnout quickly follow. Support also means communication, and this is where knowledge becomes power. I always wanted my team to understand the why behind the decisions I was making. When people are given the full picture, they are better equipped to adapt, support change, and take ownership of their work. Even difficult decisions feel less frustrating when teams understand the reasoning behind them. When staff are included in conversations and informed about what is happening and why, trust grows. Buy-in increases. People are far more likely to stand behind decisions when they understand how those decisions impact students, operations, and the bigger picture of the program. Time is another critical resource that is often overlooked. Rushed training, unrealistic schedules, and constant pressure send a

message that people are replaceable. Taking time to train properly, explain expectations clearly, and check in with staff sends a very different message. It tells teams they matter. Support is not about making things easier. It is about making things possible. This level of support does not happen by accident. It requires leaders who are willing to advocate for their teams, adjust when something is not working, and recognize when additional help is needed. It means choosing people over convenience and long- term success over short-term fixes. Leadership Lives in the Cafeteria Leadership does not stop at the central office. Cafeteria management teams play a critical role not only within individual schools, but within the program as a whole. Inside each cafeteria, managers and assistant managers set the tone for the day. The way staff are trained, spoken to, corrected, and encouraged shapes the culture of the kitchen. That culture is felt during the busiest lunch periods and in moments of stress.

“Impactful teams are not an accident. They are a leadership choice.”

Supported teams communicate better, adjust faster, and care more deeply about their work. Kitchens run more smoothly, and when problems arise, teams are more likely to work together rather than place blame. Effective managers step in when staff are overwhelmed. They teach rather than criticize. They explain expectations, lead with patience, and recognize effort as well as results. They focus on building people, not just filling schedules. When employees feel respected and valued, they give their best because they want to, not because they are forced to. That kind of effort cannot be mandated. It must be earned. Stronger Teams Build Healthier Futures School nutrition is people work. It is the combined effort of frontline staff, managers, supervisors,

and directors working toward a shared goal. When leadership shows up, when teams are knowledge, and when people are valued first, programs become stronger. High-functioning teams do not happen by accident. They are built through presence, communication, trust, and intentional support. When teams are supported, cafeterias supported with resources and run more smoothly, challenges are more manageable, and staff feel confident in their roles and connected to the mission. At the heart of every successful program is a simple truth. When we take care of the people serving our students, we are taking care of the students themselves. Every day presents a chance to shape our teams through the choices we make as leaders and coworkers. The culture we create matters.

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Advocacy in Action: Standing Up for Florida’s Students One Meal at a Time

By: Donette Worthy

In cafeterias across Florida, School Nutrition Professionals do far more than serve meals. You nourish futures. You fuel classrooms. You provide consistency and care for students who may not always find it elsewhere. Every tray that crosses your line carries more than food. It carries dignity, stability, and opportunity. But providing high quality meals in today’s environment is not easy. Rising food costs, supply chain challenges, labor shortages, and increased nutrition standards require both passion and resources. That is why advocacy is not optional. It is essential. Advocacy ensures that the voices of Florida’s School Nutrition Professionals are heard at the state level. It helps secure the funding, policies, and support needed to continue serving students with excellence. When we advocate for higher reimbursement rates, we are advocating for fresher produce, higher quality proteins, scratch cooking, updated equipment, and well-trained staff. We are advocating for meals that meet nutrition standards while still appealing to students’ tastes and cultural preferences. Higher reimbursement rates are not about profit. They are about sustainability. They allow districts to maintain financial stability while continuing to innovate. They allow central office leadership to build strong,

“When we speak up together, we do more than protect programs. We protect students.” When every student eats at no cost, participation rises. When participation rises, revenue stabilizes. When revenue stabilizes, programs grow stronger. Most compliant menus that reflect both nutrition standards and student preferences. They allow managers to focus on what they do best: overseeing the day-to-day operations within their cafeterias, leading their teams, ensuring food safety, maintaining compliance, and creating a positive dining experience for students. They allow frontline staff to take pride in serving meals that reflect the very best of what school nutrition can be. Advocacy in Florida must also include a bold and compassionate push for legislation that would allow all students to eat free at both breakfast and lunch. Hunger does not discriminate by zip code, and financial hardship is often invisible. Universal free meals remove stigma, eliminate unpaid meal debt, streamline operations, and ensure that every child has equal access to nourishment.

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importantly, when students are well fed, they are better prepared to learn, concentrate, and succeed. Food security is academic security. Florida is uniquely positioned to lead in another critical area of advocacy: strengthening and simplifying Farm to School initiatives. Our state is rich in agricultural diversity and produces an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables. From citrus and strawberries to tomatoes, leafy greens, and sweet corn, Florida agriculture offers tremendous opportunity for school nutrition programs. However, purchasing locally grown products is not always simple or financially feasible for districts operating within tight budgets and procurement regulations. Advocacy efforts should include policies that make Farm to School programs easier to implement and more financially accessible. Streamlined procurement guidance, grant funding, and incentives for local purchasing would allow districts to showcase Florida grown produce on student trays more consistently. When students see and taste food grown in their own state, it strengthens local economies, supports Florida farmers, and creates powerful educational opportunities. Farm to School is not just about fresh food. It is about connecting students to where their food comes from and fostering lifelong healthy habits. With the right legislative support, Florida can make local sourcing a sustainable reality rather than an occasional opportunity. Supporting district programs through advocacy also means protecting local flexibility. Each district in Florida When legislators see the professionalism, care, and efficiency within your operations, school nutrition moves from a line item in a budget to a living, breathing

is unique. Rural districts face different challenges than urban districts. Some programs operate large central kitchens while others rely on smaller site-based operations. Advocacy ensures that legislation and funding decisions reflect the realities on the ground. It protects your ability to adapt, innovate, and meet the needs of your specific student population. Advocacy does not only happen in Tallahassee. It happens in your schools every single day. One of the most powerful steps you can take is inviting your state legislators to visit your cafeterias. Let them see your breakfast service in action. Let them walk through your kitchens. Let them observe the planning, preparation, food safety, and compliance work that goes into every meal. Let them talk to students who rely on your program.

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program that directly impacts children in their districts. Personal experience shapes policy. Your story, your data, and your passion matter. Advocacy should be a year-round commitment. It should not begin and end with a single legislative session. Building relationships with policymakers takes time. Sharing program successes, student feedback, participation data, and financial realities throughout the year keeps school nutrition at the forefront of conversations. Every role within a school nutrition program plays a part in advocacy. Frontline staff are the face of the program. Managers and assistant managers oversee daily operations and lead their cafeteria teams. Supervisors and directors at the district level develop menus, manage budgets, ensure regulatory compliance, and communicate with district leadership and policymakers. When everyone understands the “why” behind advocacy, the message becomes unified and powerful. You are not alone in this work. The Florida School Nutrition Association stands beside you in this fight for Florida’s children. FSNA provides training, legislative updates, advocacy resources, and a collective voice that amplifies individual districts. When one program speaks, it can be overlooked. When thousands of professionals speak together, they are heard. FSNA works to ensure that state leaders understand the complexity and importance of school nutrition programs. They advocate for increased reimbursement, expanded access to free meals, stronger Farm to School initiatives, and policies that strengthen district operations. They equip members with tools and guidance to confidently engage in advocacy efforts within their own communities.

Advocacy is ultimately about protecting and elevating the students we serve. It is about ensuring that no child in Florida sits in a classroom distracted by hunger. It is about empowering School Nutrition Professionals with the resources and respect they deserve. It is about building programs that are financially sound, nutritionally strong, locally connected, and operationally sustainable. Your work already changes lives. Advocacy ensures you can continue doing so at the highest level. As School Nutrition Professionals across Florida, you are leaders, caretakers, and champions for children. Stand confidently in that role. Share your story. Invite legislators into your cafeterias. Support efforts for higher reimbursement, universal free meals, and stronger Farm to School policies. Lean into the strength of FSNA as your partner and advocate.

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Membership in the Florida School Nutrition Association (FSNA) is more than a professional box to check—it’s a pathway to growth, connection, and long-term success. When we share our experiences as members, we not only highlight the benefits we’ve received, but we also inspire others to take full advantage of this incredible network. FSNA provides access to training, advocacy, and resources that strengthen both individuals and school nutrition programs across the state. From keeping members up to date on federal and state policies, to offering continuing education that builds confidence and expertise, FSNA equips us to serve students at the highest level. But the true value of membership comes to life when we share our stories about how a workshop gave us new tools, how a conference connection opened doors, or how ongoing support reminded us we’re not alone in this important work. By openly talking about the impact of FSNA, we create a ripple effect. We encourage colleagues to get involved, strengthen our collective voice, and ensure that school nutrition professionals are seen and valued as leaders in education. Sharing isn’t just about personal success though, it’s about elevating the profession and building a stronger future for every child we serve. FUELING EACH OTHER’S SUCCESS The Heart of FSNA Membership

Learn More

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Time For Tea with Rachel: Why Social Media Matters More Than You Think in School Nutrition

goes into providing nutritious meals for students every day. It gives teams a space to show the heart behind the program, not just the menu. Social media also helps grow support within your community by bridging the gap

Let’s talk about social media. And yes, cue the eye rolls. Don’t worry, I’m not here to tell you “you have to be on social because everyone else is.” No guilt. No shaming. No trendy buzzwords. Just a real conversation. In school nutrition, social media isn’t about chasing likes, it’s about something bigger. It’s about awareness, connections, and support for the work you and your teams do every single day. Whether you love it or avoid it, social media plays a role in how your program is seen by students, parents, and the broader community. And when it’s used intentionally, it can strengthen trust, highlight impact, and amplify the story behind the meals without being overly complicated. So let’s talk realities. What actually matters, what doesn’t, and why social media doesn’t have to feel overwhelming or time- consuming to be effective. So grab your favorite beverage, pull up a chair, and join me at the coffee table because it’s time for the tea. Social Media as Awareness, Not Noise

between what parents think school meals are and what students actually experience. It creates familiarity and excitement. Students get the chance to try new foods and expand their palates, while parents can follow along and better understand the choices being made. At its best, social media creates transparency. And transparency builds trust, the kind of trust every school nutrition program wants with its community. The Realities: Why Social Feels Hard You might be thinking, “Social media takes too much time away from preparing meals,” or “I don’t even know what to post. It’s just too complicated.”

How often do you catch yourself scrolling on your phone? If I’m being honest, I scroll endlessly more than I’d like to admit and chances are your team, students, parents, and administrators do too. That alone tells us something important: social media matters in school nutrition. So

many school nutrition teams have felt unseen or undervalued at some point. Maybe you’ve heard lingering misconceptions about the quality or care behind the meals being served. Social media offers a way to change that narrative. When used intentionally, social media becomes a tool to grow awareness of the work happening behind the scenes. It can show the planning, the passion, and the commitment that

Those feelings are completely valid. The reality is that social media can feel overwhelming, especially without guidance. Not because teams aren’t capable, but because there’s no clear roadmap. When expectations feel unclear, it’s easy to stall or avoid it altogether. There is some upfront

Rachel Bartlett | Social Media Manager Rachel is a social media manager for NxtGen Network, dedicated to helping brands scale their online presence and convert followers into loyal customers. Focused on high-performing content and strategic distribution, Rachel works to simplify the social landscape for clients while driving measurable community growth and sales.

effort involved, but having a plan makes all the difference. Even something simple, like identifying a few content themes or deciding what types of posts go out on certain days, can remove a lot of pressure. Let’s be real, consistency is tough, and tone really does matter, but a plan makes both consistency and tone easier to manage. And here’s the part that often gets overlooked: one intentional post can impact perception more than people realize. You don’t have to post constantly to make an impact. You just have to post with purpose. When teams stop aiming for perfect and start aiming for clear, social media becomes a tool that supports the work, not something that competes with it. What Actually Works (Without Overcomplicating it) Here’s what works, and it doesn’t need to be overcomplicated. Social media shouldn’t live on one person’s shoulders. When it becomes a shared effort, it can actually bring teams together. The strongest results come when there’s a shared understanding across the team, when people know the why behind posting and how it supports the bigger picture. That clarity builds buy-in. Social media is also a reflection of team culture. It gives parents and the broader community a window into what’s really happening in school kitchens beyond the tray. Showing behind- the-scenes moments, teams working together, or staff enjoying the work they do helps humanize the program and shift perception. Simple content goes a long way. Highlight the tray of the day. Share special menu days. Run a quick poll with students and post the results. And above all, authenticity wins. People are drawn to real moments, not perfect ones. Social media works best when teams stop aiming for polished and start aiming for real. When content reflects the reality of the work and the people behind it, it resonates, and that’s what builds connection. Where Training Comes In Ultimately, social media can be a powerful tool for awareness, support, and connection. And while it may still feel overwhelming or raise questions about

And that’s the tea. Until next time! Social media isn’t about being everywhere or doing everything. It’s about using the right tools to support the work you’re already doing. When school nutrition teams feel supported, trained, and confident, the story they tell, online and off, becomes stronger. And stronger teams truly do lead to healthier futures. how to get an entire team on board. That’s exactly why training matters. When teams are given clear guidance, simple frameworks, and a shared understanding of purpose, social media becomes manageable and meaningful instead of stressful. Through NxtGen Masterclass, our team is expanding on this work. Our goal is helping school nutrition teams learn how to use social media marketing efficiently, simply, and with intention. For FSNA members, this is an area where the association can truly move the needle. Whether through conference sessions, member resources, or a shared statewide initiative, FSNA has the opportunity to help Florida’s school nutrition community show up online with confidence. The stories being told in school kitchens across this state deserve to be heard, and the right training can make that happen. Final Sip

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MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS Students Lead the Way at the Miami-Dade Student Food Show

More than 600 students and 60 food vendors gathered at the Miami-Dade County Public Schools Student Food Show for an exciting day of tasting, voting, and shaping the future of school meals. Students from across the district sampled everything from savory entrées to snacks and desserts. Their mission? Help decide which foods might appear on school menus next year. After tasting different items, students placed ballots for their favorites. The top choices could soon become part of the district’s menu. Elementary school leaders from Pinecrest Elementary took their roles seriously. Student Council Vice President Jackson quickly found a favorite.

“The meatballs were really good,” he said, adding confidently that school meals are delicious. Student Council President Ebenor was also on a mission. She explained that students were testing foods so they could recommend “better options or new foods we can add to the lunch menu.” High school Student Nutrition Ambassadors helped guide the experience and shared how student feedback directly impacts school menus. One ambassador explained that after students suggested pizza shouldn’t be served with green beans, the district switched the side to corn, and participation increased. The event also highlighted how students’ tastes are evolving. One student described crunchy dried edamame with “umami flavor,” while

another compared a sweet cheese pastry with strawberry sauce to cheesecake. But beyond the food, the event was about something bigger: student voice. Miami-Dade Food and Nutrition Services Executive Director Angie Kasselakis said the most rewarding part of the event is hearing students say they feel their voices matter when it comes to school meals. With hundreds of students tasting, voting, and sharing feedback, the Student Food Show proves that when students help shape the menu, everyone wins. And judging by the excitement in the room, the future of school meals in Miami-Dade is still looking very bright and very delicious.

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chapter chatter

Brevard County School Nutrition Association’s Bingo Bash: A Winning Night for Future Leaders!

On Thursday, December 11th, BCSNA members gathered for a highly successful Bingo Bash. The evening was filled with food, fun, and lively games of Bingo as members competed for fantastic prizes and enjoyed great camaraderie. Most importantly, the event helped support our future. Proceeds from the Bingo Bash will help fund two $500 BCSNA - Future Dietary & Hospitality Business Leaders Scholarships. These annual awards are available to college or trade school students pursuing careers in Culinary Arts, Nutrition Education, Hospitality, Food Science or Business Management. Students must have a 2.5 cumulative unweighted GPA and complete a 250-word essay describing their academic and career goals to apply. Student applications can be submitted through the Brevard Schools Foundation Scholarship Portal. A second Bingo Bash will be held on February 19, 2026. This event will also support BCSNA – Future Dietary & Hospitality Business Leaders Scholarships.

Serving Smiles All Summer Long

By: Donette Worthy

As the school year wraps up, summer feeding programs across Florida step into one of their most meaningful seasons. For many children, these meals are essential each day. But summer feeding can be more than a place to eat. It can be a place kids look forward to. Getting ready goes beyond menus and compliance. It is about creating an experience. When children walk onto your site, they should feel welcomed, comfortable, and excited to be there. Bright, cheerful signage, upbeat music, and a smiling face at the serving line can make all the

difference. In the Florida heat, simple touches like shaded areas, cool air flow, and plenty of water help create a space where kids want to stay and enjoy their time. Fun does not have to be complicated or expensive. Think themed days like Tropical Tuesday, Superhero Lunch Day, or Color Party Friday. Add in simple activities like sidewalk chalk, music, book corners, or quick games before or after meals. Partnering with local libraries, community groups, or even school staff can bring fresh energy and new ideas to your sites.

The real magic happens with your team. When staff take time to learn names, laugh with kids, and create a positive environment, it builds connection and trust. That is what keeps children coming back. Summer feeding is about more than serving breakfast and lunch. It is about creating a space where children feel seen, cared for, and excited to return each day.

Healthy Harvest Spring 2026 | 21

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v Beyond the Bell: Nutrition Without Pause Access. Leadership. Community. Driving nutrition support beyond the school day. As members pull up chairs, bring new voices to the table, and strengthen the collective power of our association. Focus: • No bell, no barriers: Exploring the Summer Meal Program • From Compliance to Culture: Strengthening Leadership at Every Level • The Power of Partnership: Engaging Communities to Expand Student Access Have an idea for an article? Pitch it to us!

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