School Nutrition Coordinator

Job Summary:

The School Nutrition Coordinator – Fresh Produce & Access Programs is responsible for the planning, implementation, and oversight of programs that significantly enhance the availability and consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables within the school district's child nutrition program. This role will drive innovative strategies to introduce a wider variety of fresh produce to students, fostering healthy eating habits and promoting lifelong wellness. Crucially, this position will lead efforts to increase student participation in the Free and Reduced-Price Lunch program, ensuring eligible students have access to nutritious meals. The Coordinator will play a key role in identifying and documenting administrative activities related to student health and nutrition that may qualify for reimbursement through the Arkansas Medicaid Administrative Claiming (ARMAC) program, contributing to the financial sustainability and expansion of these vital initiatives.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Fresh Produce Program Development & Implementation:Develop and implement engaging and culturally relevant strategies to introduce new and diverse fresh fruits and vegetables to students across all grade levels.Collaborate with Child Nutrition staff to integrate fresh produce into daily menus, salad bars, and taste-testing programs.Organize and execute educational activities, such as classroom presentations, garden projects, and cooking demonstrations, to increase student knowledge and appreciation for healthy eating.Identify and establish partnerships with local farms, farmers' markets, and community organizations to source fresh, local produce whenever feasible.Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of fresh produce initiatives, making data-driven adjustments to maximize student engagement and consumption.Free and Reduced-Price Lunch Program Access & Participation:Develop and implement strategies to increase awareness of and participation in the Free and Reduced-Price Lunch program among eligible families.Provide assistance and guidance to families on the application process for Free and Reduced-Price Lunch, ensuring accessibility and ease of application.Collaborate with school administrative staff, counselors, and social workers to identify and reach out to potentially eligible families.Organize outreach events, workshops, or information sessions for parents/guardians to explain program benefits and assist with applications.Address barriers to participation, such as language access, understanding of forms, or privacy concerns.Track and report on FRPL participation rates and efforts.Menu Planning & Nutrition Education:Contribute to the development of healthy, appealing, and compliant school menus, ensuring the prominent inclusion of fresh fruits and vegetables.Provide nutrition education resources and guidance to students, staff, and parents on the benefits of a balanced diet rich in produce.Stay abreast of current nutrition guidelines, food safety regulations, and best practices in school nutrition.ARMAC Program Support & Documentation:Understand and adhere to ARMAC program guidelines and requirements for allowable administrative activities related to student health and nutrition.Accurately track and document time spent on eligible ARMAC activities, such as:Developing and reviewing nutrition education materials.Coordinating with health services staff on student dietary needs and accommodations.Participating in inter-agency meetings focused on student wellness and health promotion.Gathering data and preparing reports on student health outcomes related to nutrition initiatives.Outreach to families regarding the Free and Reduced-Price Lunch program and other nutrition resources.Assisting families with navigation of student health services and eligibility for programs that ensure access to food.Documenting referrals made to other agencies or resources to address food insecurity.Participating in training on community resource navigation for families.Collaborate with the ARMAC Coordinator to ensure proper reporting and maximization of eligible claims.Participate in ARMAC training and stay informed of any program updates.Compliance & Operations:Ensure all fresh produce initiatives and nutrition programs comply with federal, state, and local regulations (e.g., USDA, ADE Child Nutrition Unit).Assist with inventory management and ordering of fresh produce, ensuring quality and minimizing waste.Maintain accurate records and prepare reports on program activities, expenditures, and outcomes.Collaboration & Communication:Work collaboratively with school principals, teachers, nurses, social workers, and other school staff to integrate nutrition education, healthy eating, and food access throughout the school environment.Communicate effectively with students, parents, and community stakeholders regarding school nutrition programs and initiatives.Represent the school district at relevant community events, conferences, and workshops.Work Schedule & Environment

This is a full-time position with a typical work schedule of 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday through Friday. The role requires a dynamic work environment, involving some travel and a mix of locations. The successful candidate will regularly visit various campuses within the district to implement programs, engage with students and staff, and monitor initiatives. Time will also be spent at the district's corporate office for administrative tasks, meetings, and collaborative planning sessions with the Child Nutrition team and other departments. 

Qualifications:

Minimum of [2] years of experience in child nutrition, public health, or a related field, with a focus on promoting healthy eating habits and/or food access programs.Demonstrated knowledge of USDA Child Nutrition Programs and regulations, including the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and School Breakfast Program (SBP) application processes.Strong understanding of child development and effective strategies for engaging children in nutrition education.Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and Google Sheets.Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a dynamic school environment.Commitment to promoting student wellness and healthy lifestyles.Familiarity with the Arkansas Medicaid Administrative Claiming (ARMAC) program and a willingness to learn and adhere to its documentation and reporting requirements, especially concerning outreach and referral activities related to student health and wellness programs.Ability to obtain and maintain all required certifications and training.

Physical Requirements:

Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds.Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout school facilities.Manual dexterity to handle food and kitchen equipment.

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