ABCs of School Nutrition
ABCs of School Nutrition is a partnership between the University of Illinois Extension and the Illinois State Board of Education, the ABCs of School Nutrition provides professional development opportunities for Illinois school nutrition professionals that meet USDA Professional Standards.
FY2025 Successes
Created four new and updated three live online or in-person trainings
Created nine self-paced online modules
Provided 28 in-person and virtual events, reaching 1481 school nutrition professionals:
181 school districts
93% of participants increased their knowledge
104.5 hours of training provided
Twenty-seven online modules offered, reaching 277 school nutrition professionals:
2839 total online modules completed
798.5 hours of professional development completed
IL-EATS: Illinois Equitable Access Towards Sustainable Systems
IL-EATS Impact Report: Illinois Equitable Access Towards Sustainable Systems: IL-EATS transformed the Illinois food system by sourcing fresh, local foods from socially disadvantaged farmers and delivering to underserved communities across Illinois. Over 18 months, IL-EATS supported 200 Illinois farmers and 987 distribution sites, with local food reaching 88 of Illinois’ 102 counties. Similar local food purchasing models can offer a promising path to providing food for Illinois residents and communities.
SNAP-Education: Three-Year Return on Investment
Illinois SNAP-Ed was among the most impactful and largest programs until the end in 2026. Between 2020 and 2022, an evaluation was conducted to assess the program's impact on participants. Results showed that Illinois SNAP-Ed encouraged steps toward health and wellness among Illinois residents, and a majority (59%) acted after receiving SNAP-Ed. Actions taken included starting to be more physically active, starting to eat more fruits and vegetables, and trying new recipes. Four-page infographic style report | Formal report written in collaboration with Altarum