As students prepare to return to school, dedicated school nutrition professionals work diligently behind the scenes—preparing kitchens, planning menus, and placing food orders. These professionals play a vital role in the health and well-being of children, directly influencing childhood nutrition through the meals they serve and by fostering healthy eating habits that can last a lifetime.

To uphold the highest standards in school nutrition, the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act (HHFKA) requires all school nutrition professionals to complete annual training to meet USDA Professional Standards. These standards ensure school nutrition staff have the knowledge, training, and tools to plan, prepare, and procure nutritious, safe, and enjoyable school meals.

University of Illinois Extension has partnered with the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) to offer professional development training for school nutrition professionals. There will be two training opportunities in early August (see below). There is no charge for this training; however, pre-registration is requested.