Fresh Bites Winter Edition 2026
A NYSNA PUBLICATION
WINTER 2026 Bonding, Buffalo, and An Unhurried Gastropod Even When the Ground Is Frozen: Moving Farm to School Forward NYSNA's 2026 Position Paper
Volume 77 Number 1 Published Triannually
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IN THIS ISSUE
FROM OUR PARTNERS
CJ Schwan's 5 Tasty Brands 21 SA Piazza / Wild Mike's Ultimate Pizza 28 PRIDE CAS 30 General Mills Foodservice 33 Headwater Food Hub 35 Link2 Hospitality Solutions 39 American Dairy Association North East 40 Butterball 43 New York Apple Association 46 Duffy's AIS 49 National Food Group / Zee Zee's 58 J&J Snack Foods 63
2026 SPRING CONFERENCE 16 BONDING, BUFFALO, AND AN UNHURRIED GASTROPOD 32 EVEN WHEN THE GROUND IS FROZEN: MOVING FARM TO SCHOOL FORWARD 44 NYSNA'S 2026 POSITION PAPER 66
OFFICERS & HEADQUARTERS 6 AREAS 24 COMMITTEES 44
CONTACT US Fresh Bites A NYSNA PUBLICATION 21 Executive Park Dr. Clifton Park, NY 12065 (518) 446-9061 Designer: Taryn Connors, Membership Engagement Coordinator, NYSNA Editor: Jess Cogswell, Professional Development Coordinator, NYSNA
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NYSNA Mission Statement To be the primary resource for all school nutrition professionals and partners who provide school meals that contribute to the improvement of the health, nutrition, and education of school children to reduce food insecurity. 2025-2026 Board of Directors www.NYSchoolNutrition.org
AREA K Mara Pugh Director of Food and Nutrition Services Elwood UFSD
PRESIDENT Katy Headwell, RD Director of Food Services Shenendehowa CSD 970 Route 146 Clifton Park, NY 12065 (518) 881-0600 x68601 Operational Manager of Shared Food Services Capital Region BOCES 900 Watervliet Shaker Rd. Albany, NY 12205 (518) 918-8135 VICE PRESIDENT Scott Ziobrowski Director of Food Service Hilton CSD 400 East Ave, Hilton, NY 14468 585-392-1000 x2152 PRESIDENT ELECT Megan Bates, SNS
AREA C Kimberly Abram Director, Food & Nutrition Services Hamburg CSD
100 Kenneth Avenue Greenlawn, NY 11740 (631) 266-5400 AREA L Adam Snell, BPS, CASM Food Service Director South Seneca CSD 7263 Main St. Ovid, NY 14521 (607) 869-9636 x4111 AREA W Vacant At Large Director Lauren Burr Director of Food Service Enlarged CSD of Middletown 223 Wisner Avenue Middletown, NY 10940 (845) 774-6275 At Large Director Sarah Keen, RD Director of Food Service Schuylerville CSD 14 Spring Street Schuylerville, NY 12871 (518) 695-3255 x2290 At Large Director Shakia Hall Director of Child Nutrition Rocky Point UFSD 90 Rocky Point - Yaphank Road Rocky Point, NY 11778 (631) 849-7550 At Large Director Geoffrey Fasy Director of Food Service Canandaigua CSD 143 North Pearl Street Canandaigua, NY 14424 (585) 396-3700
5305 Abbott Road Hamburg, NY 14075 716-646-3200 AREA D
Beth Krause, RD, CDN Child Nutrition Director Ithaca City School District
400 Lake Street Ithaca, NY 14850 (607) 274-2101 AREA E Kate Dorr, RD, MBA
Director of Shared Food Services Oneida Herkimer Madison BOCES 502 Court Street, 2nd Floor
Utica, NY 13502 (315) 223-6068 AREA F Kristin Colarusso-Martin Food Service Director
SECRETARY/TREASURER Joe Kilmer, MS. Ed., SDB Regional Director of Food Service GST BOCES 950 Sing Sing Rd Horseheads, NY 14845 (607) 661-7295 CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Jennifer Martin, MBA, CAE NYSNA
Massena Central Schools 84 Nightengale Avenue Massena, NY 13662 (315) 764-3710 AREA G Erin Phelan Food Service Director Port Jervis Central School District 150 Pike Street Port Jervis, NY 12771 (845) 858-3124 AREA J Alex Clements, MS, RDN, CDN Assistant Director of Food & Nutrition North Colonie CSD 91 Fiddlers Lane Route 155 Latham, NY 12110 (518) 785-8591
21 Executive Park Drive Clifton Park, NY 12065 (518) 446-9061
AREA A Dana Boldt Director Honeoye Falls Central Schoo 83 East Street Honeoye Falls, NY 14472
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UPCOMING EVENTS MAR 2026 SNA Legislative Action Conference Washington, D.C. MAR 8-10
JUL 2026 APR 2026
NYSNA 75 th Annual Conference Syracuse, NY
APR 28-30
SNA Annual National Conference Charlotte, NC
JUL 12-14
OCT 2026
OCT 20
Regional Industry Seminar Batavia, NY
OCT 22
Regional Industry Seminar Troy, NY
DEC 2026
DEC 1
Regional Industry Seminar Long Island, NY
DEC 9
Regional Industry Seminar Syracuse, NY
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Dennis Ryan dennis.ryan@schwans.com 315-727-7199
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MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
OFFICERS
Hello, New York School Nutrition New York School Nutrition Association members!
My name is Katy Headwell and I’m the Food Service Director at Shenendehowa Central Schools in Clifton Park, NY (near Albany).
I am so incredibly honored and truly humbled to be speaking to you today as your newly appointed NYSNA President. Like all of you, I’m in the trenches every day, working to make sure our students are fueled and ready to learn. This association has been a vital part of my professional life, and I am so excited to have this opportunity to serve you and advocate for the critical work we all do. I’m still energized after our incredible annual conference in Buffalo back in October. Wow! What an event. I want to send another heartfelt thank you to the entire conference committee, our hosts in Buffalo, and every single volunteer, speaker, and vendor who made it such a success. You could feel the passion in every room. From the insightful educational sessions to the amazing vendor show floor, and most importantly, the chance to finally reconnect with friends and colleagues... I know I left feeling inspired, motivated, and reminded of just how powerful our community is when we
Katy Headwell, RD NYSNA President
Katy Headwell is the Director of Food Services at Shenendehowa Central Schools in Clifton Park, NY. She has been in her position for over 13 years and loves being in school food service. She gets excited seeing students try new foods and working with great people. She enjoys spending time with her husband and son, Jackson.
come together. And I look forward to our next annual conference in Syracuse in April! As we look to the year ahead, I want to build on that amazing momentum. To me, that means focusing on three core goals:
1. Advocacy: First, we must be a powerful, unified voice. We are still facing immense challenges. I will work tirelessly to advocate on our behalf in Albany and in D.C., fighting for policies that support our programs and ensure that we keep Healthy School Meals for all. 2. Connection: Our greatest resource is each other. I want to strengthen our network across all regions of the state, creating more opportunities for us to share best practices, solve problems together, and support one another, not just at the conference, but all year long. 3. Professional Development: Let's continue to elevate our profession. We’ll focus on providing relevant, cutting-edge training and resources that help you grow as leaders and innovators in your districts. This is your association. My door is always open. Please, reach out to me with your ideas, your challenges, and your successes. I am here to listen and to work for you. Thank you for your trust in me. I am so excited to get started. Let’s make this an incredible year for NYSNA and for the millions of children we proudly serve every day. ~ Katy ~
Please welcome our 2025-2026 President, Katy Headwell, RD, as she begins her term. Katy sent in a few words to share with you all:
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learn even more about our new president!
OFFICERS
HQ Jennifer Martin Addy Waldie Jess Cogswell Taryn Connors
COMMITTEE Alex Clements
Shakia Hall Kim Abram Jeff Youker
I would also like to thank the NYSNA Headquarters staff and the conference committee for an amazing event. - Katy -
10 Fun Facts ABOUT ME
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
I started competitive swimming when I was 4 years old My son is 14 and 6’4 already (and still growing) My husband and I have known each other for over 30 years
I love Christmas and everything that goes with it! I have an older sister that lives in Massachusetts I was a Division 1 athlete at UCONN I tutored some of the Basketball players at UCONN and they play in the NBA now
8. 9. 10.
My favorite meal is the Thanksgiving Dinner my dad makes I love to read-my favorite book is The One by John Marrs I love watching my son play Football, Basketball and Lacrosse ~ Katy ~
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MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT-ELECT
OFFICERS
The Power of Thankfulness in School Nutrition As school nutrition professionals, our days are often filled with long hours, busy lunch lines, and the constant challenge of meeting student needs with limited resources. In the midst of this daily hustle, it can be easy to focus on what’s not going right—equipment that breaks down, short staffing, or the newest menu regulation. But research, and experience, tell us that shifting our mindset toward thankfulness can have a powerful impact on both our happiness and our work environment. Thankfulness Leads to Happiness Gratitude is more than just saying “thank you”—it’s a mindset that encourages us to notice and appreciate the good around us. Studies show that practicing gratitude can increase happiness, reduce stress, and improve relationships. When we take time to reflect on what’s going well—whether it’s a student’s smile, a co-worker’s extra effort, or a smooth meal service—we train our brains to look for the positive. Over time, this shift in perspective creates a more optimistic, resilient outlook.
Megan Bates, SNS NYSNA President-Elect
Megan Bates is the Operational Manager of Shared Food Services for Capital Region BOCES. She is a 2010 graduate of University of Vermont with a bachelor’s degree in Nutrition and Food Science. She is now entering her 13th year in school food service. She currently lives in Averill Park, NY with her husband, son, step- son, and 2 crazy dogs.
Bringing Gratitude into Our Work In school nutrition, small acts of thankfulness can make a big difference. Here are a few ways to incorporate gratitude into your day and your team culture: Start team meetings with gratitude. Take one minute for each person to share something they’re thankful for that day or week. It’s a simple practice that builds connection and positivity. Celebrate small wins. Whether it’s hitting participation goals or getting a picky eater to try a new fruit, recognizing successes—big and small—boosts morale. Express appreciation often. Thank your coworkers, custodians, teachers, and administrators for their support. A handwritten note or kind word can go a long way. Model gratitude for students. Thank them for good manners or helping clean up. Kids notice kindness, and gratitude can be contagious! A Culture of Thankfulness When gratitude becomes part of our daily routine, it transforms the way we see challenges. Instead of focusing on what’s missing, we see what’s possible. A thankful team is a motivated team—one that supports each other, takes pride in its work, and finds joy in nourishing students every day. Gratitude doesn’t just make us happier; it reminds us why our work matters.
~Megan ~
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MESSAGE FROM THE VICE PRESIDENT
OFFICERS
Maxine Nightengale once sang….”Right back where we started from”…and almost 7 years later, here I am as VP of the NY School Nutrition Association. From 2009-2019, I was a member of the NYSNA board in various roles. Western Area Director, Area Director Chair, Conference Chair and outgoing president in 2019. Throughout those years, the organization grew in leaps and bounds and achieved so many successes. In my presidential year, we secured the 30% initiative, which was a great start. From there, the NYSNA Board and the amazing presidents behind me lobbied and fought for what we now have as Universal Meals throughout NY state. One may ask: “Why return to the board after 10 years of service and 7 years off?” Right Back Where We Started From: A Return to Service at NYSNA
Scott Ziobrowski NYSNA Vice President
Scott Ziobrowski is a Director of Food Service for Hilton CSD. Going into his 17th year in Child Nutrition, Scott has more than 45 years in the food service business including three years of collegiate dining and owning his own restaurant from 2001-2006. He was formerly the NYSNA outgoing president in 2019, and the first re- nominated president in the history of NYSNA. He is also a proud dad to two daughters, Kyra and Taryn.
Nothing in life is guaranteed - not even the extension of universal meals, CEP, 30% initiative, or the various other things we have fought for as an organization. I feel we still need to continue to fight and lobby year in and year out to keep programs we have in place, whether it’s free meals or Farm to School initiatives. The seven years away from the organization has also allowed me to serve on the NYS OGS SLAC committee, as well as serve on an educational committee with ACDA. Having the increased knowledge of these two organizations will help me assist our current President and President-Elect with current and additional initiatives we may bring to the table in the next couple of years. The time away also let me do many wonderful things in my district and participate in programs like Local Food for Schools and NY Thursdays, which really increased participation. On a personal note, it allowed me to spend valuable time with family and get my youngest through high school and onto college. As you read this article, we will have had the last fall conference for NYSNA. The event in Buffalo, October 24-25, was a great success and most notably was attended by many new members. The NYSNA headquarters team did a great job sending us into a new direction of having conference in the spring going forward. In addition, thank you to all the industry members who attended! Lastly, I look forward to working with many extremely passionate and talented food service members on the new NYSNA Board and active committees.
Your dedication and commitment to the association does not go unnoticed.
~ Scott ~
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MESSAGE FROM THE PAST PRESIDENT
OFFICERS
A Note of Thanks
My term as President of the New York School Nutrition Association has come to a close, and I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of you for the honor of serving in this role over the past year. It has been a privilege and an honor to represent such a dedicated community of professionals who work tirelessly to nourish and support New York’s students every day. Together, we’ve faced challenges, celebrated achievements, and continued to advance our shared mission of providing nutritious, high-quality meals to children across the state. Your commitment, collaboration, and passion for the work we do inspire me every day. Thank you for your trust, your engagement, and your continued dedication to the success of our programs and the students we serve. I am proud of all we’ve accomplished together and excited to see the incredible things ahead for NYSNA. With appreciation, Bryan McCoy Past President, New York School Nutrition Association
Bryan McCoy NYSNA Past President 24-25 Bryan McCoy has worked in food service for 25 + years. He is a School Lunch Director for Broome-Tioga BOCES where he is responsible for 6 school districts with 22 kitchens and around 175 employees. Bryan is also the School Lunch Advisory Committee representative for area “D.”
Thank you to our 2024-2025 NYSNA president Bryan McCoy. Your leadership was inspirational and we look forward to continuing your amazing work.
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MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
HEADQUARTERS
Dear NYSNA Members,
As we look toward a new year and beyond, NYSNA continues to evolve to better serve our members, our partners, and—most importantly—New York’s students. I’m excited to share some updates and reflections as we enter a new chapter together. Fresh Bites – Now Three Times a Year Starting in 2026, Fresh Bites will move to a triannual publication cycle , arriving in February, June, and October . This change allows us to offer richer, more comprehensive stories and timely updates aligned with NYSNA’s major events, legislative efforts, and member achievements. Each issue will continue to highlight the creativity, resilience, and advocacy that define our school nutrition community. Evolving Our Events: Connecting and Inspiring Year- Round We’re also reimagining how we connect across the state. Beginning in 2026, our Annual Conference will move to the spring, becoming a season of innovation, networking, and professional growth. This will be complemented by a renewed focus on food and culinary excellence in the fall through the Regional Industry Seminars (RIS)—with opportunities to learn, taste, and collaborate closer to home. Before then, mark your calendars: RIS 2026 is coming this October and December ! This year’s sessions promise engaging demonstrations, vendor showcases, and practical takeaways you can bring directly back to your district.
Jennifer Martin, MBA, CAE NYSNA Chief Executive Officer Since joining the New York School Nutrition Association in 2014, Jennifer has played a pivotal role in driving the organization’s remarkable growth. A recipient of the prestigious national 40 Under 40 award, she is recognized not only for her leadership but also for her exceptional talent in scouting emerging professionals. With expertise in administration and governance, Jennifer brings a unique blend of skills to her role. Her keys to success are encapsulated in her guiding principles: “Work smarter, not harder;” “Be intentional;” and “Your attitude determines your altitude.”
2026 Legislative Action Conference: Advocacy in Action At the heart of NYSNA’s mission is advocacy—ensuring every child in New York has access to healthy, locally sourced school meals. As outlined in our 2026 Position Paper , we are calling on state leaders to: • Sustain Universal Meals to guarantee uninterrupted access to nutritious food for every student, eliminating meal debt and administrative burden. • Modernize the NY 30% Incentive Program by adopting a strengthened reimbursement structure that includes breakfast, protects current participants, supports new entrants, and ensures long-term sustainability. Our 2026 Legislative Action Conference will champion these priorities, bringing our collective voice to Albany to advocate for smart, sustainable policies that nourish New York’s children and strengthen our state’s agricultural economy. Moving Forward Together As we grow and adapt, our mission remains clear: to nourish, advocate, and lead . I am proud of what we’ve accomplished together— and energized for what lies ahead. Let’s continue to build connections, inspire innovation, and advocate boldly for the future of school nutrition in New York. Together, we are feeding minds, fueling futures, and shaping change. ~ Jennifer ~
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AWARDS & SCHOLARSHIPS 2026 NYSNA APPLICATIONS ARE OPEN! 2026 CONFERENCE REGISTRATION AWARD MEMORIAL TRUST FUND SCHOLARSHIP NEW! SCHOOL NUTRITION INNOVATION & IMPACT AWARD SHINING STAR AWARD Due on or before March 1st FARM TO SCHOOL PARTNERSHIP AWARD CHAMPION OF CHILD NUTRITION AWARD SCHOOL NUTRITION LEADERSHIP & ADVOCACY AWARD INDUSTRY MEMBER OF THE YEAR AWARD
Apply Today!
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COMMUNICATIONS
Career Opportunities Looking for a Job in School Nutrition? Did you know that NYSNA has a job board on the website? We are contacted by districts/companies all across the state throughout the year and we share the information right here.
If you are an employer looking to fill open positions in School Nutrition? Send your job listings to Jessica@NYSchoolNutrition.org to boost your reach and be featured on the NYSNA website. Visit our Job Postings page here!
Interested in Joining some Facebook Communities? There are SO many school nutrition professionals sharing information from all across the country. Get in on the conversation! Social Media Communities
School Nutrition Masterminds
New York School Nutrition Association Membership Page School Nutrition Professionals
Tips for School Meals that Rock
School Nutrition Collaborative
ATTENTION INDUSTRY PARTNERS: UNLOCK EXCLUSIVE ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES WITH OUR NYSNA Media Kit Promote your brand to the school nutrition community through: ✓ Interactive Ads in Fresh Bites our widely-read & award-winning digital publication ✓ 5 Star Industry Partners receive 1 full-page ad in 1 issue per year (assigned upon membership renewal or as-needed) ✓ Additional ads are available for purchase (5 Star and Enhanced members recieve a 25% discount on additional advertising options available in the media kit) ✓ High-visibility Website Advertising options on our NYSNA website including homepage banner ads. Position your brand at the forefront of New York’s school nutrition professionals! Advertising opportunities are a members-only benefit. Contact Jessica@NYSchoolNutrition.org if you have any questions about advertising or industry membership for your organization.
Follow NYSNA
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Champions of School Nutrition NYSNA’s 74 th Annual Conference in Buffalo brought together school nutrition professionals, industry partners, and thought leaders from across New York for a weekend of learning, laughter, and lasting connections. From the moment attendees arrived, the energy was electric—members reconnected, shared success stories, and explored innovative ideas to strengthen child nutrition programs statewide.
With its mix of education, camaraderie, and inspiration, the 2025 Conference truly embodied the theme Champions of School Nutrition: Together Everyone Achieves More . View the full album here!
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Shine in Buffalo
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Join Us! APRIL 28-30, 2026 | SYRACUSE, NY
The 2026 Conference Committee is thrilled to invite you to our newly redesigned NYSNA Annual Conference, taking place in spring in Syracuse, NY. After years of thoughtful planning and transition, this new spring format arrives at the perfect time—because our theme, “Imagine the Possibilities,” reflects exactly what we’ve spent the past year exploring. This redesign didn’t just happen. It was intentionally shaped through NYSNA’s recent journey into the Event Design Program and the launch of our first Event Design cohort. Over the past year, a select team of NYSNA leaders worked through the globally recognized #EventCanvas
methodology℠, closely examining the needs, motivations, and realities of everyone we serve. Together, we reimagined not only what the Annual Conference could look like, but why it matters—and how it can create deeper outcomes for members, attendees, and partners. As our industry continues to evolve, so do we. Just think about where school nutrition was five years ago. None of us imagined curb-side meal service during a pandemic—or that universal school meals would become a reality for every child. And yet here we are, achieving things once considered impossible. That’s exactly why Event Design matters: it helps us prepare—not for the past, but for what’s possible next. What emerged from this work is a bold, human-centered redesign that begins in 2026 and will continue shaping NYSNA events in the years ahead. This new approach brings clearer purpose, stronger alignment, and a vision rooted in mission— and guided by empathy. So today, I invite you to imagine what the future of our profession could look like. Imagine the innovations we haven’t discovered yet. Imagine the challenges we’ll solve together. Imagine the possibilities…
MEET THE 2026 Conference Committee
Megan Bates, SNS | Capital Region BOCES Conference Chair
Caitlin Lazarski, MS, RD, SNS | Pine Bush CSD Elena Montgomery | Pittsford Central School District Samantha Hartman | Penfield Central School District Beth Krause, RD, CDN | Ithaca School Food Service
Maggie Anatriello | Niskayuna Central Schools Kristin Colarusso-Martin | Massena Central School District
Stephanie Lawler | Sabin Meyer Corp Marianne Dayton, SNS | Affinity Group
Click Here For More Information
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CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS Schedule at A Glance Tuesday, April 28, 2026 11am – 1pm
(subject to change)
SLAC Committee Meeting – Invitation Only
12pm – 5pm 2pm – 5pm
Registration Open
Opening General Session - Awards / F2S and 30% Programming / Mega discussion
6pm – 8pm
Welcome Networking Event
Wednesday, April 29, 2026 7am – 4pm
Registration Open
8am – 10am 10am – 12pm 12pm – 2pm 2pm – 3pm
Marketplace Hours (Breakfast Available)
General Session
Marketplace Hours (Lunch Available); Campfire Chats*
Educational Breakouts Educational Breakouts
3:15pm – 4:15pm 5:30pm – 7:30pm
Industry Game Night / Fundraising Event * * Teams/ Tickets available for purchase*
Thursday, April 30, 2026 7am – 4pm
Registration Open
7am – 9am 9am – 9:30am 9am – 10:15am 9:45am – 10:30am 10:30am – 12pm
Marketplace Hours (Breakfast Available)
Innovation Solutions Sessions* Invitation Only – ROUND ONE*
Educational session for Industry Partners
Innovation Solutions Sessions * Invitation Only – ROUND TWO*
Speed Networking* Invitation Only Marketplace Hours (Lunch Available)
12pm – 2pm
2:30pm – 4:30pm
Closing General Session
Information at A Glance
Conference Location: OnCenter & Marriott Downtown, Syracuse, NY
Conference Theme: Imagine the Possibilities
Conference Dates: Tuesday, April 28 – Thursday, April 30, 2026
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UPDATES FROM NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT BY KIMBERLY VUMBACO
Director of Child Nutrition Programs New York State Education Department
We’re thrilled to share that our first year of Universal Free School Meals is off to a strong start! To support and elevate school meal programs across New York State, we’ve been busy developing exciting events, hands-on training opportunities, and impactful marketing resources. A heartfelt thank you to all the incredible school food service professionals whose dedication and hard work make these programs possible. Your commitment to nourishing students every day is the foundation of our success—and we’re here to support you every step of the way. 2026 NY Farm to School Summit February 23–25 in Saratoga Springs. This exciting event will bring together school nutrition professionals, farmers, educators, and community leaders to strengthen local food systems and celebrate the impact of Farm to School programs across the state. Attendees can look forward to hands-on workshops, inspiring success stories, and opportunities to build partnerships that connect New York-grown food to school meals. See you there! Spring and Summer 2026 Farm to School Regional Workshops Much like the statewide Farm to School Summit, the Regional Farm to School Workshops offer a locally focused opportunity for hands-on learning, collaboration, and culinary training. Hosted by NYSED’s Office of Child Nutrition and Cornell Cooperative Extension – Harvest NY, these full- day events bring together educators, food service professionals, school leaders, and local producers to strengthen Farm to School efforts. Participants explore ways to connect classroom lessons with cafeteria meals, gain practical culinary skills from Brigaid and NYSED Master Instructors, and learn strategies for sourcing and serving local food. Farmers and vendors also engage with schools, offering samples and insights into collaboration. Upcoming workshops are planned for Long Island, the Capital District, Finger Lakes, and Central New York regions this spring and summer. Go to our website for more details and registration. Regional Roots: Culinary Training Utilizing Local Foods – Reserve Your Training Date! Provide your school food service team with free, hands-on culinary training held right in your school kitchen during the school day! This innovative program helps staff build confidence and skills to prepare fresh, nutritious meals using New York-grown ingredients.
Regional Roots Culinary Training at Port Jervis CSD
Training slots for this school year are filling fast, don’t miss out! Complete the Regional Roots Culinary Interest Form to bring this opportunity to your school. Empower your team, delight your students, and keep local recipes on the menu all year long! What food service directors are saying about Regional Roots: “Students loved the crispy kale chips—and staff loved the confidence boost!” “Our staff left energized and ready to revamp the menu.”
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AGENCY REPORTS
“Practical, inspiring, and packed with local flavor.” “Regional Roots helped us connect cafeteria to community.” Reminder: LMS – Your Central Hub for School Meal Program Training & Support Our new Learning Management System (LMS) is your one-stop online hub for everything related to school meal programs. Whether you're completing professional standards, refreshing your skills, staying organized, or seeking support—LMS makes it easier than ever to succeed. LMS Offers: ✓ On-demand training available anytime ✓ Automatic tracking of professional standards credit hours ✓ Downloadable training certificates ✓ Easy access to Zoom links for upcoming webinars ✓ A single location for helpful resources and guidance Please contact LMSSUPPORT@nysed.gov, and our team will assist you with the setup process. Free Resources to Promote Breakfast Just in time for School Breakfast Week celebrations, Breakfast Kits are available to order from our website. Schools can look forward to themed kits that include posters, stickers, and activity/coloring books—all centered around this year’s theme, “The Quest for School Breakfast.” The kits will also feature a fun Riddle Quest Game, with daily clues for students to guess throughout the week! Plus, schools will receive a reusable window cling promoting the message “Take ½ cup Fruit/Vegetable,” to encourage healthy choices.
Regional Roots Culinary Training at Slamon River CSD
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OGS Food Distribution Update:
Direct Diversion:
Chef Jeff and USDA Marketplace:
Complete procurement for end products prior to entering lbs. in WBSCM Complete Direct Diversion worksheet for easier input into WBSCM Send processors your forecasted end product needs for SY 26-27
Keep a lookout for bonus offering �� Only request what you can handle Items purchased on Chef Jeff will be automatically shipped on your next delivery
Direct Delivery:
DoD Fresh Program:
Top 30 products chosen for SY 26-27 Entitlement for SY 26-27 ordering will be estimated from your SY 24-25 meal counts Redistribution Deadline May 1, 2026 Delivery Deadline June 12, 2026
Increases will require 80% usage of existing FFAVORS balance Start thinking of the amount you would like to allocate for SY 26-27 Receipting needs to be completed within 2 days of receiving your order
Important information and upcoming events: Attend the ACDA annual conference in Seattle April 19-22, 2026 2026 NYSNA annual conference in Syracuse April 28-30, 2026
The Pilot Program:
Funds will need to be completely drawn down on by May 31, 2026 Start thinking of the amount you would like to allocate for SY 26-27
Not Available in Area K&W
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Our New Innovative Flavor Lineup Is Here!
Freezer to Oven CROISSANT DOUGH
Naturally Flavored TASTY WATER
Individually Wrapped TWIN PACK MINI SUBS
Southwest Style EGG ROLL
Smart Snack Approved APPLE KNOT
Sweet Heat ONION RINGS
Canadian Style BREAKFAST SANDWICH
Individually Wrapped GRILLED CHEESE PULL APART
Whole Grain CIBATTA ROLLS
See What’s New for 25-26 SY
Want to learn more? Get in Touch!
Jon Alley Lunch & A La Carte Regional Sales Manager Northeast jalley@tastybrandsk12.com (540) 820-4575 Jake Butcher Breakfast & On-the-Go Regional Sales Manager Northeast jbutcher@tastybrandsk12.com (804) 988-3692 Meserete Davis | mdavis@ajletizio.com | (603) 458-8513 Cassie Miller-Leone | cmillerleone@ajletizio.com | (603) 505-1344 Laurel Preshner | lpresher@ajletizio.com | (603) 721-8059
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Powering Participation: RESOURCES TO PROMOTE NEW YORK’S UNIVERSAL FREE SCHOOL MEALS!
BY FRANCESCA DIGIORGIO, MPH School Meals Policy & Engagement Specialist Hunger Solutions New York
Since the 2025-2026 school year began, New York’s 2.7 million students have had free breakfast and lunch available to all every school day, no questions asked. The State’s newly enacted Universal School Meals Policy is a critical tool against child hunger during a time of rising food insecurity 1 . Research shows 2 that when free school meals are available to all, more students participate. New York’s recent gains 3 in school meal participation exemplify this trend–a success largely due to the state’s historic expansion of free school meals through the Community Eligibility Provision. Now that universal free school meals are a reality in New York, schools can take additional steps to maximize participation, starting with wide, regular promotion of the program’s availability and benefits. Our latest strategies and resources below: Spread the word about universal school meals with our toolkit! Awareness is a key driver of strong school meal participation. Our new Universal School Meals Outreach Toolkit offers free resources for school districts to make promotion to students and families a lighter lift: ■ Sample social media posts and images: Download sample messages and images to use on your social media channels and other communications. ■ Sample communications language: Promote the benefits of universal free school meals on your website, newsletters, emails, texts/robocalls, and more. ■ Flyers to print or use digitally.
1. Amplify free breakfast for all in your community! Use our toolkit to spread the word about free breakfast for all through your existing communications to students and families. *More #NSBW26 social media resources coming soon!* Sign up for our newsletter to get notified when these are available. 2. Join the conversation on social media. During NSBW, Hunger Solutions New York will be sharing daily posts highlighting how New York schools are reaching students with free school breakfast for all. Connect with us on social—like, share and comment on why school breakfast is important to your school community! ■ Use and follow these hashtags: #NationalSchoolBreakfastWeek, #SchoolBreakfastNY, #Meals4AllN, #NSBW26. This helps us amplify your posts! ■ Find Hunger Solutions New York on social media: Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook
Celebrate universal school meals during National School Breakfast Week! National School Breakfast Week (NSBW)—March 2-6, 2026—is around the corner and is also an opportunity to highlight the power of universal free school meals in your community. During New York’s historic NSBW, schools and partners can celebrate this incredible victory with two key actions:
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AGENCY REPORTS
Get students excited about universal school meals! Our Universal School Meals Outreach Toolkit includes graphics to let students know about free school meals for all and highlight reasons to participate each day! Pair these graphics with sample messages from our toolkit for an easy lift and disseminate through channels your school already uses to communicate with students.
We are here to help! At Hunger Solutions New York, our goal is to help schools feed more kids with the federal child nutrition programs. We provide individualized assistance, at no charge. Join our mailing list to receive updates, resources, and more. Questions? Please reach out to our team of experts: ■ Francesca DiGiorgio, MPH, School Meals Policy and Engagement Specialist ■ Cody Bloomfield,Summer Nutrition Specialist ■ Kayla Snyder, CACFP Outreach and Engagement Specialist
References: 1. Okonkwo, C. Ford, M. McCarthy, J. Barrett, A. Havusha, A. Sandman, D. (2025). Hunger on the Rise: New York’s Food Insufficiency Rates Hit New Highs and Exceed Pandemic Levels (2024 Update). New York Health Foundation. New York, NY. 2. Bylander, A., FitzSimons, C., & Hayes, C. (2024). The State of Healthy School Meals for All: California, Maine, Massachusetts, Nevada, and Vermont Lead the Way. Food Research & Action Center. 3. Hayes, C., FitzSimons, C. (2025). The Reach of School Breakfast and Lunch During the 2023–2024 School Year. Food Research & Action Center.
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AREAS
AREA A
meet your area a director
BY DANA BOLDT Director of Food Services Honeoye Falls-Lima Central School District
Hello, Area A! I am the Food Service Director for the Honeoye Falls-Lima Central School District, where I lead efforts to provide nutritious, high-quality meals to students. I hold an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Food Service Administration from Monroe Community College and a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Dietetics from the State University College at Buffalo. My journey in school nutrition began at Webster Central School District as a Food Service Helper. I quickly advanced to Kitchen Manager, a role I held for six years. In August 2017, I was appointed Food Service Director for two districts—including Honeoye Falls-Lima— through Genesee Valley BOCES-Regional Food Service. After five years in that regional role, I was honored to be hired as the full-time Food Service Director for Honeoye Falls- Lima CSD, where I continue to serve today. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my four dogs, baking, reading, and camping— especially in the Adirondacks. These hobbies help me stay grounded and energized as I take on new challenges in both my career and personal life. I’ve been a proud member of the New York School Nutrition Association (NYSNA) since 2010 and served on the executive board of the Monroe County School Nutrition Association from 2019 through October 2025. My achievements include participating in the Local Food for Schools grant, winning the National School Lunch Program Equipment Grant to purchase three combi ovens, and securing the Farm to School grant, which enabled collaboration with local farmers and small businesses. I’m excited to be serving on the NYSNA Board for the first time and look forward to contributing to the advancement of school nutrition across New York State. ~ Dana ~
Dana Boldt
AREA A DIRECTOR
WINTER 2026 Dana is the Food Service Director for the Honeoye Falls-Lima Central School District with over 15 years of experience in school nutrition. She began her career as a Food Service Helper at Webster CSD and advanced into leadership roles through Genesee Valley BOCES before joining Honeoye Falls-Lima. A NYSNA member since 2010, Dana has served on the Monroe County SNA executive board and secured multiple grants supporting local food initiatives and kitchen improvements. She holds an AAS in Food Service Administration and a BS in Dietetics, and enjoys baking, reading, Adirondack camping, and spending time with her four dogs. FreshBites 24
AREAS
AREA A
Honeoye Falls-Lima Central School District Is Making Snow… Out of Chocolate Milk!
BY DANA BOLDT Director of Food Services Honeoye Falls-Lima Central School District
Honeoye Falls-Lima Central School District is the first in New York State to test the amazing Icetro Snow Machine , generously loaned by our friends at Link 2 Hospitality Solutions and FAIM Reps . This frosty marvel has been in the Manor Intermediate School kitchen since July 2025, and it’s turning everyday milk into magical, edible snowflakes! Right now, we’re serving up double chocolate snowflakes , and soon we’ll be sampling a cool new flavor: chocolate mint snowflakes. The Snow Machine isn’t just for milk. It can also freeze juice , unlocking a whole new world of frosty, fruity fun. With the power to produce up to 1,000 pounds of snowflakes per day , this machine is a game-changer for school treats. And the best part? These frozen delights are a hit with kids and adults alike . ■
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AREAS
AREA C
meet your area c director
BY KIMBERLY MULVEY Food & Nutrition Services Director Hamburg Central School District
Hello, Area C! It is with great excitement and enthusiasm that I step into the role of Area C Director for the New York School Nutrition Association. With a Bachelor of Science degree in Hotel Restaurant Management, specializing in Food Service Operations, and over 25 years of experience across various sectors of the food and beverage industry, I bring both passion and expertise to this position. My journey in food service has been enriched by diverse experiences, including a semester abroad in Lake Como, Italy, where I had the privilege of working at a hotel and immersing myself in the world-renowned culinary culture of the region. These experiences have shaped my approach to food service and hospitality, emphasizing the importance of quality, creativity, and connection. Currently, I serve as President of the Erie County School Nutrition Association, a role that allows me to collaborate with dedicated professionals who share my commitment to supporting student well-being through nutritious meals. My prior involvement as a member of the New York School Nutrition Association Awards and Scholarship Committee has also been instrumental in fostering professional growth and recognizing excellence in our field. Working in school nutrition has been a deeply rewarding experience, as it allows me to contribute to the health and development of future generations. I believe that every meal served is an opportunity to make a positive impact on a child’s life. Outside of my professional endeavors, I enjoy baking, hiking, participating in Zumba classes, and spending quality time with my significant other, Paul. These activities help me stay balanced and energized as I take on new challenges. I am thrilled to begin my tenure as Area C Director, and I look forward to collaborating with my colleagues across the state to advance the mission of the New York School Nutrition Association. Together, we can continue to enhance the nutritional programs that are vital to the success of our students and communities. ~ Kim ~
WINTER 2026 AREA C DIRECTOR Kimberly Mulvey is the Food Service Director for the Hamburg Central School District in Hamburg, New York. She has been in the foodservice industry for over 25 years but has recently joined school foodservice 3 years ago. She currently serves on the Erie County School Nutrition Association as Board President and has served NYSNA as a member of the Awards and Scholarship Committee. Outside of her work day you can find her baking, hiking, taking zumba classes or with her significant other, Paul. FreshBites 26 Kimberly Mulvey
AREAS
AREA C
Area C Spring Fling Brings Together School Nutrition Professionals for Learning, Networking, and Fun
BY KIMBERLY MULVEY Food & Nutrition Services Director Hamburg Central School District
Earlier this year, members of the New York State School Nutrition Association’s Area C gathered for a Spring Fling Educational Event , it was dedicated to professional development, networking, and celebration of our shared commitment to feeding New York’s students. The event brought together i ndustry professionals, vendors, and school nutrition professionals from across our area to learn, develop, and grow their skill sets in a fun and engaging environment. A special thank-you goes out to Dave Anastasi and Chef Shawn Ebeling from P3/Lake Effect for their generous hospitality and support in hosting us at the historic Wurlitzer Building and to Anne Rich, Frontier CSD Food Service Director for helping plan this event. Their attention to detail and dedication to our field made this event engaging and fun! Participants were treated to group discussions, equipment demonstrations, hands-on learning opportunities, and valuable insights from our industry partners. The highlights of the afternoon included a tour of Platter’s Chocolate factory and a dinner buffet that was partially prepared by attendees while participating in the equipment demonstrations. Events like the Area C Spring Fling showcase the power of collaboration within our profession. By coming together, sharing best practices, and strengthening relationships with our vendors and peers, we continue to elevate the standards of school nutrition across New York State. Thank you again to everyone who attended and contributed to making this Spring Fling such a success. We look forward to seeing everyone again for another great opportunity to learn, grow, and connect ! ■
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AREAS
AREA D
meet your area d director
BY BETH KRAUSE, RD, CDN Child Nutrition Director Ithaca City School District
Hello, Area D! My name is Beth Krause, and I’m thrilled to continue serving as your Area D Director! I began my career in school nutrition after graduating from RIT in 1995 with a degree in Nutrition, knowing from the start that I wanted to be a School Food Service Director. Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of working in several districts across Upstate New York, including Allendale-Columbia, Canandaigua, Fairport, and Trumansburg, and I now proudly serve as the Food Service Director for Ithaca City School District. Every day in this field brings something new, and I love seeing students enjoy healthy meals that fuel their learning. Outside of work, you’ll often find me practicing yoga, paddleboarding, or line dancing—activities that keep me energized and balanced for the busy days ahead. I’m looking forward to another great year connecting with colleagues and supporting our shared mission of nourishing students across Area D. ~ Beth ~
The Annual NYSNA Conference this fall was truly enjoyable. The Tompkins County Group had a great lunch on Saturday and enjoyed the activities. We enjoyed presenting that day on Leading Through Change. The atmosphere of the conference was musical and lots of fun!
Beth Krause, RD, CDN AREA D DIRECTOR Beth is currently the Food Service Director of Ithaca City School District. In 1995 Beth graduated from RIT with a degree in Nutrition and started her School Lunch Career at Allendale-Columbia School in Pittsford NY. She then worked at Canandaigua City Schools, Fairport Schools, Trumansburg Schools . Beth resides in Ithaca and loves yoga, paddleboarding, and line dancing.
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AREAS
AREA E
meet your area e director
BY KATE DORR, RD, MBA Director of Shared Food Services Oneida Herkimer Madison BOCES
Hello, Area E! I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and the Director of Shared Food Services for Oneida Herkimer Madison BOCES. I graduated from the University of Vermont with a Bachelor’s of Science in Nutritional Food Science and Dietetics and then went on to complete my dietetic internship and graduate work with Cornell University. I also completed my Masters in Business Administration at SUNY POLY. I have been working with the OHM BOCES Food Service Program since early 2009; changing the school food environment has been a priority from the beginning. I have worked with regional partners to create the Mohawk Valley Farm to School Initiative (MVFTS). MVFTS has been integral in expanding FTS in the region through New York State Ag and Markets Farm to School grants received by the local (Oneida County) Cornell Cooperative Extension, the Harvest of the Month program and multiple New York State Food Days. I have also served on the Board of Directors for Oneida County Cornell Cooperative Extension and the New York School Nutrition Association’s Farm to School Committee. This is my second year serving on the NYSNA Board and the PP&L committee. ~ Kate ~
WINTER 2026 AREA E DIRECTOR Kate Dorr is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist the Director of Shared Food Services for Oneida Herkimer Madison BOCES. She holds a BS in Nutritional Food Science and Dietetics from the University of Vermont, completed her dietetic internship and graduate studies at Cornell University, and earned an MBA from SUNY Poly. Dedicated to school nutrition since 2009, she has advanced through multiple leadership roles at OHM BOCES and has served in her current role since July 2023. Outside of work, she enjoys running, hiking, traveling, and spending time outdoors—especially in the Adirondacks with her husband and four kids. FreshBites 31 Kate Dorr, RD, MBA
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