February 16, 2012



National School Lunch and School Breakfast Program SY2012-2013 Meal Pattern Overview Webinar - February 22

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has released the nutrition standards for school meals beginning with school year 2012-2013. The new standards were designed to align school meals with the most recent nutrition recommendations and current capabilities of schools. The Nutrition Programs Division of the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) will be presenting the USDA Food Based Meal Pattern overview webinar for National School Lunch Program sponsors on February 22, 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM. The webinar will focus on the meal pattern changes that will go into effect for school year 2012-2013.

Space is limited for the February 22 webinar. Reserve your webinar seat now at https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/654572009

The USDA currently has a number of resources available for schools to utilize to help them prepare for changes that are to be put into place for 2012-2013. The resources include:

To access these resources please visit the USDA's website at http://www.fns.usda.gov/cnd/Governance/Legislation/nutritionstandards.htm. As more information becomes available ISBE will be posting updates, information, and additional resources to the Nutrition Programs Division website at http://www.isbe.net/nutrition/default.htm.

ISBE Nutrition Programs Division staff are available for assistance by calling 800-545-7892 or 217-782-2491.