School Year Kickoff: Your Food Service Prep Checklist

By: Alana Hansen-Baun

As the first day of school gets closer, child nutrition teams everywhere are getting ready for another busy year. A strong start doesn’t just happen when students walk into the cafeteria — it begins well before that, with a well-organized kitchen, solid systems, and clear communication across the team.

We understand the dedication it takes to run a school meal program. To make things a little easier, we’ve put together a simple checklist to help you and your team feel organized and ready when the school year kicks off.

1. Prioritize Food Safety 

Food safety is the foundation of every successful meal program. Before students return, take time to review your food safety procedures and confirm everything is in top shape:

1. Calibrate thermometers and record calibration in your logs.

2. Double-check that all coolers, freezers, and hot-holding equipment are fully operational. Post and update temperature logs in storage areas.

3. Confirm every staff member has completed their health and safety training.

4. Look over your HACCP manual and update it to match current practices and procedures.

Restock handwashing stations with soap, paper towels, and proper signage — including staff restrooms.

2. Stay on Top of Compliance

Meeting federal and state requirements sets your program up for success (and avoids headaches later!). A few key tasks to review:

1. Update policies and procedures related to meal service.

2. Schedule or document local wellness policy meeting.

Ensure that civil rights annual training is completed by both food service and support staff.

3. Boost Organizational Efficiency

A little organization goes a long way in streamlining daily operations and improving the student experience:

1. Provide cashiers with updated rosters and supplies at every point of service.

2. Confirm your POS system syncs correctly with the student information system.

3. Refresh and organize your allergy management to reflect current student needs.

Coordinate with vendors and distributors to confirm meal delivery schedules and service times.

4. Refresh Signage and Communication

Signage does more than meet compliance — it helps guide students and promotes your program!

1. Post the required 2019 “And Justice for All” poster in public view.

2. Display the current menu and meal pricing in a visible area.

3. Update Offer vs. Serve signage as required.

Ensure the most recent health inspection report and license are posted in public view.

5. Plan for Waste Management

Managing waste effectively saves money and reduces environmental impact. Proactive strategies can help keep your program efficient:

1. Use student surveys or taste tests to gauge menu preferences.

2. Implement accurate meal counts

3. Set up share tables for unopened items and track leftovers for safe reuse.

Keep shelf-stable or frozen options on hand for unexpected changes in participation.

6. Promote Your Program

A great meal program deserves recognition! Keep families and students engaged by showcasing what makes your cafeteria special:

1. Share updates, menus, and student highlights on social media or newsletters.

2. Organize theme days or local food highlights

3. Schedule a tasting event to introduce new items and gather feedback.

Make your cafeteria a welcoming space with fun decor and signage.

A Strong Start Sets the Tone

Launching the school year with safety, organization, and creativity in mind helps set your team — and your students — up for success. Use our back-to-school checklist as a helpful tool. Here’s to making this school year the best one yet!