MSAD 71 supports good nutrition as part of a school environment that contributes to student health and encourages positive food choices and eating habits. The Board believes the nutrition influences a student’s ability to take full advantage of the school system’s educational program and is, therefore, related to student achievement.

The Board also recognizes that proceeds form the sales of foods and beverages outside of the MSAD 71 School Nutrition Program (“competitive foods”) are a significant source of funds for student activities that MSAD 71 might not otherwise be able to provide.

The Board has adopted this policy to govern the sale of foods and beverages on school property.

RESTRICTION ON SALE OF COMPETITIVE FOODS

Maine Department of Education Rule Chapter 51 mandates that any food or beverage sold at any time on school property of a school participating in the National School Lunch or School Breakfast Programs shall be a planned part of the total food service program of the school and shall include only those items which contribute both to the nutritional needs of children and the development of desirable food habits, and shall not include foods of minimal nutritional value as defined in applicable federal regulations, except as provided for by school board policy in certain circumstances.

As allowed by Rule Chapter 51, the Board permits the sale of food and beverages outside the MSAD 71 School Nutrition Program (“competitive foods”) to:

1. School staff

2. Attendees at school-sponsored events held on school property

3. The public at community events held on school property in accordance with the Board’s Facilities Use Policy.

This policy applies to sales of foods and beverages at any time on school property by any person, group, or organization.

When foods and beverages are sold to raise funds for schools or student activities, students, staff, parents, or school-sponsored organizations involved in such sales are requested to include at least some healthy food choices.

FUNDS FROM SALES OF COMPETITIVE FOODS

Funds from all food and beverage sales made at any time on school property shall accrue to the benefit of the MSAD 71 School Nutrition Program, except that funds raised through authorized sales of competitive foods shall accrue to the sponsoring school, approved student organization, or approved booster organization in accordance with applicable policies, cash management procedures and administrative directives.

Legal Reference: Ch. 51 (Dept. of Education Rule) Child Nutrition Programs in Public Schools and Institutions

Adopted: 10/24/2005