Recent News

August 2021

Each August, the Academy and its Foundation celebrate Kids Eat Right Month™. The annual campaign focuses on the importance of healthful eating and active lifestyles for children and families, featuring expert advice from registered dietitian nutritionists. Throughout Kids Eat Right Month™, use the hashtags #KERmonth and #kidseatright to spread the word on social media. As we get closer to August, there will be more resources for both consumers and registered dietitian nutritionists on eatright.org.

August 2021

We want to see your favorite high-quality pictures of your school nutrition programs in action! Our SNS DPG is in the process of compiling a powerful video showcasing the awesome work of School Nutrition Programs across the country and we want to include your images! Please send allowable pictures of your students, staff, teams, and food depicting the impact of your programs. Deadline: Sept 1st, 2021 to Jocelyn Karbo.

August 2021

Check out USDA’s Medicaid Direct Certification Demonstration Project opportunity!

August 2021

Visit https://eatrightfnce.org/ to register and learn more.

August 2021

Are you interested in serving on the Executive Committee for the SNS DPG in 2022?  It is never too early to think about becoming more involved and active in our DPG!  Please complete the SNS DPG Nominating Questionnaire or contact Shannon FitzGerald at shannon@fitkidtext.com with questions.

July 2021

“Bravo!” to the following SNS-DPG members who have been announced as National Award Winners by SNA!  

SNA Southeast Regional Director of the Year & State Director of the Year - Alabama
Melinda Bonner, MBA, TD, SNS 

State Director of the Year - Louisiana
Nadine Mann, PhD, RD, LDN

State Director of the Year - Mississippi
Ashley Harris, MS, RD, SNS

President's Award of Service
Roy Pistone, SNS
Emily Karel, RD, LDN, CDM
Janis Campbell-Aikens, SNS

View the full digital piece here.

July 2021

July 2021

School Nutrition Quarterly Advocacy Day is July 26th with a kick-off from 6pm-8pm and July 27th from 11am-4pm EST for site visits. Focus will be on Child Nutrition Reauthorization and specifically school meals and WIC. If interested in attending, please contact Liz Campbell at ecampbell@eatright.org.

July 2021

July 2021

August 1-7 is National Farmers Market Week!  To find your local markets and learn what your local farmers are harvesting right now, consider using websites such as the USDA’s Local Food Directories.

July 2021

June 2021

The SNS DPG seeks to recognize an emerging RD, NDTR, or student member with no more than 3 years of experience.  Ideal candidates are those who have demonstrated exceptional performance in practice relating to school nutrition programs and leadership achievements in nutrition-related organization(s).  Apply here by August 1, 2021.

If you have questions about submitting an application, please contact Courtney Morabito at MorabiC@cps-k12.org or view this how-to webinar: Webinar: How To Submit an Honors Nomination

June 2021

June 2021

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics has created a new Diversity and Inclusivity Hub. Check out D&I resources from the Academy including research articles, Foundation scholarships and awards, mini-grants, presentations, webinars, video and more. #Allyship #diversityandinclusion

June 2021

June 2021

ACEND® is hosting a conference call to answer stakeholder questions about ACEND®'s work on the accreditation standards on Tuesday, July 20, 2021. These virtual town halls are at 11:00 am (Central time). All stakeholders are invited to participate.  Click here to learn more and access the meeting.

June 2021

June 2021

The School Nutrition Services (SNS) Dietetic Practice Group (DPG) would like to welcome our new members, and thank current members for renewing your Academy and SNS DPG membership!  Visit the SNS DPG webpage to learn about our DPG and to find resources like upcoming events, past webinars and discussion boards.  Set up your member profile and start connecting!

May 2021

Each year, we have the commitment to share our annual report with members so they can see the impact the DPG has had on the profession of school nutrition. You can view the 2019-2020 annual report here.

May 2021

The House of Delegates values your input on future Critical Issues. Academy members are the key contributors to determining Critical Issues. If you have a Critical Issue you would like the House of Delegates to consider for a future dialogue, please complete this survey by May 21, 2021. As your delegate, I appreciate you helping me identify which Critical Issues are important to our membership.

Thank you, Theresa Stretch, MS, RDN, CP-FS, Delegate, School Nutrition Services

May 2021

Renew your membership by June 1, 2021 by clicking on this link. To join the Academy and a DPG, please visit the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Membership page or call 800/877-1600, ext. 5000.

SNS DPG Member Benefits:

• Timely information about Academy news, SNS DPG events, and school nutrition legislation and policy, through e-blasts.
• Webinars on current topics, available for CPEs
• Networking events at SNA's Annual National Conference and the Academy's Food & Nutrition Conference & Expo
• Opportunities to receive awards and scholarships offered through SNS DPG
• Monthly Spoodle reports

May 2021

Submit a late-breaking abstract by May 31! https://sm.eatright.org/FNCE2021poster #eatrightPRO

May 2021

May is Food Allergy Awareness Month! Did you know an estimated 8% of American children are allergic to certain foods? Learn about common allergens and how to reduce your child’s risk of developing an allergy: https://sm.eatright.org/allergyrisk #eatright #kidseatright

May 2021

Summer Food Service isn’t a time to let our guards down to the threat of food allergies. It is the most difficult time for SFAs to monitor allergies, due to the disconnection from student profiles. One suggestion is to post a notification at each point of sale, encouraging customers to STOP and notify their Child Nutrition Professional if they need a special diet. Here is an example.

April 2021

We are planning for next year and would value your input. Please complete this brief survey: Planning for SY 2022

April 2021

Grab your favorite cup of Joe (or tea) and join us for one of these great Coffee Chats. We will be discussing topics based on industry, school food service, state agency, and other roles our SNS DPG members play in Child Nutrition Programs. Click to register!

State Agency Coffee Chat, Wednesday 4/21 at 3 pm EST

School Foodservice Coffee Chat, Thursday 5/13 at 5 pm EST

Child Nutrition Program Coffee Chat, Tuesday 5/18 at 2 pm EST

April 2021

While no food or supplement can combat stress, maintaining a nutritious eating plan and engaging in physical activity can help you manage it. During #StressAwarenessMonth, use these tips: https://sm.eatright.org/stressmanage #eatright

April 2021

Looking for your next opportunity in the nutrition and #dietetics profession? Search and apply for jobs on EatRight Careers! Get started: https://sm.eatright.org/ERcareers #eatrightPRO

April 2021

School Lunch Hero Day is right around the corner! Recognize and celebrate your school lunch heroes on May 7th. This year, our heroes had nothing but wind beneath their capes, as they served nonstop throughout the pandemic.

April 2021

During National #PreceptorMonth, volunteer your time to help impact the future of the nutrition and #dietetics profession! Sign up to become a preceptor.

The Academy offers lots of resources for preceptors, including webinars, guides and checklists! Learn more.

ACEND’s Dietetics Preceptor Training Program helps preceptors prepare for and excel in their important role as teachers, coaches and mentors. Get started.

March 2021

Meet your Newly Elected Leaders:

Chair-Elect: Sandy Curwood, PhD, RDN Nutrition professionals contribute significantly to School and Child Nutrition Programs and even more markedly during the pandemic with the opportunities for new innovations, promising practices, and partnerships. Looking forward to serving our SNS practice group!

Treasurer: Meghan Martinson, MS, RD, LD It is an honor to be chosen for a leadership position within the School Nutrition Services Dietetic Practice Group! I am looking forward to growing professionally through this service opportunity and building collaborative relationships through my new role in this community to continue to advance and influence nutrition initiatives in our schools.

Nominating Committee: Shannon Ebron, MS, RD Thank you for electing me to the SNSDPG42 Nominating Committee. I am honored to serve among dedicated school nutrition professionals working hard to provide children nutritious meals everyday.

March 2021

Frozen foods are an affordable, convenient way to get your daily dose of fruits and vegetables! Frozen fruits and vegetables are also a great way to send a bulk amount of produce home with your students for Spring Break. Use these tips to select nutritious varieties and store them safely at home. #NationalNutritionMonth

March 2021

If you don’t have time to whip up a homemade meal, you can still enjoy the benefits of a family dinner! Here are some ideas to prepare nutritious, quick meals at home. #eatright #kidseatright #NationalNutritionMonth

February 2021

We want to hear from our creative professionals! Share with the DPG your ideas on how to educate students on diversity. Do you have a traditional recipe or a holiday event promoting cultural sensitivity and inclusion? Have your creative ideas featured in the upcoming Spoodle Report and inspire your fellow members. Share your ideas here.

February 2021

February is Black History Month. Watch the School Nutrition Association's webinar, honoring and celebrating the Black community's achievements. Listen to the inspiring leadership journey of Black nutrition professionals, including our fellow member, Shannon Ebron, MS, RDN, LD. 

February 2021

School Nutrition Services Award of Excellence: The SNS DPG seeks to recognize an RD or NDTR member that has demonstrated exceptional performance in practice relating to school nutrition programs and leadership achievements in nutrition-related organization(s). Apply here by April 1.

National Awards from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Learn more and apply here by March 1.

February 2021

Feb 1: Membership renewal for 2021-2022 opens online

Feb 1: Voting in the Academy National Election begins

Feb 15: Foundation scholarship application opens

Feb 18: Call for FNCE® 2021 Poster Session Abstracts closes

March 1: Last day to apply for the Academy’s Diversity and Inclusion Awards and Grants

March 1: Last day to submit nominations for 2021 National Honors and Awards

March 10: Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Day

We want to hear from our creative professionals! Share with the DPG your ideas on how to educate students on diversity. Do you have a traditional recipe or a holiday event promoting cultural sensitivity and inclusion? Have your creative ideas featured in the upcoming Spoodle Report and inspire your fellow members. Share them with us here.

Upcoming webinars for menu planning and recipe development: February 18 and March 25.

More details to come.

Check out the awards and grant opportunities available now.

2021 Slate of Candidates from School Nutrition Services

President-elect

Director-at-Large

Submit an abstract by February 18! Learn more and submit here. #eatrightPRO

During the #COVID19 pandemic, the Academy has gathered resources for food and nutrition practitioners to address preparedness, patient care and food safety and access. Use the Coronavirus Professional Resource Hub on #eatrightPRO

Diversity and Inclusion Mini-Grant

If you have any ideas for diversity and inclusion outreach or events, please contact our Diversity Liaison, Anh-Tram Pham at pham0131@umn.edu. Mini-grant applications are due March 1, 2021 and we would love to hear what you think would be impactful towards advancing D&I within our DPG!

Complete this survey to help the SNS DPG better support our members in the House of Delegates for 2021.

The Academy offers a $1,000 Diversity and Inclusion Action Award to an ACEND accredited dietetics educational program, affiliate, dietetic practice group, member interest group, or other recognized Academy group. The award recognizes accomplishments in successfully recruiting and retaining underrepresented individuals. The application deadline is March 1, 2021. Apply today!

The Diversity and Inclusion Leaders Program supports Active category members from underrepresented groups within the nutrition and dietetics profession. Four leaders are selected to participate in a two-year leadership program and are provided mentorship, leadership training, and networking. The application deadline is March 1, 2021. Apply today!

Nominate a colleague who has advanced the nutrition and dietetics profession, exhibited leadership in the field, and shown devotion to serving others. #eatrightPRO

The Academy’s landmark volunteer media Spokesperson Program advances the Academy’s mission and goals and increases the public’s knowledge of food, nutrition, and health. Three-year Spokesperson terms begin June 1. Openings are available in a number of geographical and practice specialty areas. The application deadline is February 5. Learn More.

The Academy offers a variety of webinars on topics such as sports nutrition, diversity and inclusion, medical nutrition therapy, professional development and more! Get Started. #eatrightPRO #RDNCPE

November 2020

1. The sessions

2. The expo

3. The SNS DPG Networking Event

4. The chat and networking function

5. Membership showcases

6. The platform used

November 2020

The Academy offers a $1,000 Diversity and Inclusion Action Award to an ACEND accredited dietetics educational program, affiliate, dietetic practice group, member interest group, or other recognized Academy group. The award recognizes accomplishments in successfully recruiting and retaining underrepresented individuals. The application deadline is March 1, 2021. Apply today!

November 2020

The Diversity and Inclusion Leaders Program supports Active category members from underrepresented groups within the nutrition and dietetics profession. Four leaders are selected to participate in a two-year leadership program and are provided mentorship, leadership training, and networking. The application deadline is March 1, 2021. Apply today!

November 2020

Nominate a colleague who has advanced the nutrition and dietetics profession, exhibited leadership in the field, and shown devotion to serving others. #eatrightPRO

November 2020

The Academy’s landmark volunteer media Spokesperson Program advances the Academy’s mission and goals and increases the public’s knowledge of food, nutrition, and health. Three-year Spokesperson terms begin June 1. Openings are available in a number of geographical and practice specialty areas. The application deadline is February 5. Learn More

November 2020

The Academy offers many resources for nutrition and dietetics professionals to further their education from the comfort of home! Review this list of convenient options. #eatrightPRO #RDNCPE

November 2020

November is India’s biggest holiday, Diwali, also known as Festival of the Lights. Diwali is a 5-day festival celebrated in Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism. The festival symbolizes the victory of light over darkness. Take a virtual trip overseas to learn more about Diwali and fill your kitchen with the warm, aromatic smell of India with these traditional Diwali recipes.

October 2020

Our nation’s kids depend on us for more than just the food we serve. We have the power to influence the quality of life for our young generations who are unable to cast a ballot. And remember, Child Nutrition Programs are still overdue for reauthorization.

Make your voice heard. Learn more about why voting impacts food insecurity and inequality → Food Research & Action Center’s Anti-Hunger Nonprofits & Elections Guide.

“Voting is the foundation stone for political action”
- Dr. Martin Luther King

October 2020

Nominations for some Academy National Election positions are open until Nov. 6! Nominate yourself or a colleague. #eatrightPRO

October 2020

FNCE® was superb! I really enjoyed the virtual format and am especially rejuvenated by all of the science and research that was presented. Staying current and hearing from experts across the field of nutrition excites me.

My favorite part is always connecting with fellow SNS DPG members at the Member showcase “booth” and our Recipe Round-Up networking event!

-Jocelyn Karbo, SNS DPG
Chair-Elect

September 2020

The SNS Nominating Committee is currently seeking nominees for the 2021-2022 Executive Committee. Elections will be held in February 2021 coinciding with Academy elections. Those elected take office on June 1, 2021.

Available positions include:

• Chair-Elect (3-year commitment)
• Treasurer (2-year commitment)
• Nominations Committee Member (2-year commitment)

👉 Click here to learn more about each position.

If you are interested in an elected position or nominating someone else, please complete this form by October 1st and a member of the Nominating Committee will follow up with you.

September 2020

Education for the day: some foods should always be washed, but others should be kept far away from the sink. Review these #foodsafety guidelines to learn more. #eatright #foodsafety

September 2020

The Academy offers a variety of convenient, recorded webinars! Learn more here! #eatrightPRO

September 2020

Students - we invite you to sign up for a virtual coffee chat with an SNS DPG member. We will pair you with a professional in your field of interest. Network, ask questions, or just enjoy a nice cup of joe with a fellow member.

August 2020

Culinary Interventions and Positive Nutritional Outcomes Among School-Aged Children

My name is Madeline Anastasia and I just graduated from the University of New Hampshire majoring in Nutrition, Dietetics. I quickly became very passionate about nutrition after taking more in-depth classes, getting hands-on experience volunteering at diabetes camps, kids cooking classes, cooking matters, and activities of that nature.

School nutrition is so important to me because after interacting with school-aged children, you see how impressionable they are at this age and how important it is for them to learn about nutrition. Next year I will still be attending the University of New Hampshire for my Masters in nutritional sciences to achieve my dream of becoming a registered dietitian!

August 2020

Please send the attached information to Jocelyn Karbo directly by August 31st, 2020.

August 2020

Students who are planning on attending the 2020 Food & Nutrition Conference & Expo™ virtual event can apply for a Foundation Student Stipend before registering. Stipends are made possible by the Foundation thanks to the generosity of dietetic practice groups, member interest groups, affiliates, and individual members.

The application deadline is September 6. Apply today!

August 2020

As we start a new year, the SNS DPG Executive Committee is working to bring in-demand training to members, as well as identify individuals to serve in appointed positions. We want to fill positions on diversity & inclusion, awards & scholarships, electronic communications, newsletter, and policy & advocacy committees for one year term, with the potential to be reconsidered for the next year.

Please complete a brief survey and we will follow up with you ASAP.

August 2020

What would you like to see for our SNS DPG FNCE® Virtual Networking Event? Share your ideas here.