Fueling Students for Success: Advancing School Meal Programs through Community Engagement

School meals play a critical role in student health, academic performance, and overall well-being, yet many families are not fully aware of the opportunities to shape, support, and elevate their division’s school nutrition programs. During this session, participants will gain a clear understanding of how school nutrition programs operate, what federal and state policies guide them, and where PTA partnerships can make a real impact. The session will highlight proven approaches—like taste tests, garden programs, and local purchasing partnerships—that enhance meal participation, elevate menu quality, and strengthen connections between classrooms, cafeterias, and local agriculture. PRESENTED BY THE VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION