With the New York State budget process winding down, it is expected that the State will continue and increase their investment in this National School Lunch Program (NSLP) in the FY 27 NYS Budget. With new legislation passed two years ago, the State began supplementing the Federal reimbursement, and last year, with increased allocations and improved eligibility provisions, the lunch program became truly universal!
There is a real opportunity here for schools to significantly reduce meal costs for families and unlock substantial state and federal funding. It is a complicated process that requires expertise that many schools don’t have; it also requires a shift for schools in assuming more responsibility for government accountability than they may be used to. Teach NYS is here to straighten out misconceptions about the program and help you assess the viability of participating in it.
We have been assisting schools for the past year in applying for and implementing the program in conjunction with Michael Salzbank, who has many years of experience and expertise in all areas of the NSLP. Together, we have created a support structure that will enable your school to successfully implement the program as well as understand your responsibilities and fulfill them as the program requires.
The application is due on June 30th, and there are many items that you should already start working on well in advance of the deadline.
Our goal is to keep this affordable for schools and give you independence so that you don’t need high-priced assistance for years to come. If you’re interested in exploring whether this program is a fit for your school, we’d be happy to discuss your eligibility and next steps by contacting kanofskyy@teachcoalition.org.