Nutrition Guidelines
All foods and beverages available in district schools during the school day shall be offered to students with consideration for promoting student health and reducing obesity. Foods and beverages provided through the National School Lunch or School Breakfast Programs shall comply with established federal nutrition standards. Foods and beverages offered or sold at school-sponsored events outside the school day, such as athletic events and dances, may offer healthy alternatives in addition to more traditional fare.
Competitive Foods
Competitive foods available for sale shall meet or exceed the established federal nutrition standards (USDA Smart Snacks in School). These standards shall apply in all locations and through all services where foods and beverages are sold to students, which may include, but are not limited to: a la carte options in cafeterias, vending machines, school stores, snack carts and fundraisers. Competitive foods are defined as foods and beverages offered or sold to students on school campus during the school day, which are not part of the reimbursable school breakfast or lunch. The district may impose additional restrictions on competitive foods, provided that the restrictions are not inconsistent with federal requirements.
Fundraiser Exemptions
Fundraising activities held during the school day involving the sale of competitive foods shall be limited to foods that meet the Smart Snacks in School nutrition standards.
Non-Sold Competitive Foods
Non-sold competitive foods available to students, which may include but are not limited to foods and beverages offered as rewards and incentives, at classroom parties and celebrations, or as shared classroom snacks, shall meet or exceed the standards established by the district. If the offered competitive foods do not meet or exceed the Smart Snacks in School nutrition standards, the following standards shall apply:
- Rewards and Incentives: Foods and beverages shall not be used as a reward or incentive in district schools.
- Classroom Parties and Celebrations: Only non-food-based parties and celebrations shall occur on the school campus during the school day in district schools.
- Shared Classroom Snacks: Shared classroom snacks are not permitted in district schools.
The district provides a list of suggested nonfood ideas and healthy food and beverage alternatives to parents/guardians and staff, In lieu of edible treats/rewards, we ask that families consider providing an activity, game, or experience for the students which are non-monetary. As an example, students love to have guest readers to the classroom. Other considerations include novelty school supplies (i.e., stickers, pencils, erasers, notebooks, etc.) or small tokens or trinkets. Each of these items should be appropriate for school. If you are contemplating whether an activity or item would be appropriate, please reach out to your child's school principal or teacher for further guidance. They can provide you with information about the available time for an activity, count of students in the class, or offer suggestions.
Marketing/Contracting
Any foods and beverages marketed or promoted to students on the school campus during the school day shall meet or exceed the established federal nutrition standards (USDA Smart Snacks in School) and comply with established Board policy and administrative regulations. Exclusive competitive food and/or beverage contracts shall be approved by the board, in accordance with provisions of law. Existing contracts shall be reviewed and modified to the extent feasible to ensure compliance with established federal nutrition standards, including applicable marketing restrictions.