Port Washington trustees hear detailed update on school food-service operations, equipment and CEP plan

Port Washington Union Free School District trustees received a comprehensive update on the district's food-service program at a recent board meeting, covering equipment purchases paid from the lunch fund, student engagement efforts, new point-of-sale and student information technology, and an application to enroll Manor Haven in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP).

The presentation, led by district staff member Jessica, outlined this school year's equipment investments (popcorn machines, food warmers, convection and combi ovens, ice machines, dunnage racks and new cafeteria furniture), described student focus groups and tastings led by Chef Dwayne, and summarized operations and finances: revenues, expenses, encumbrances and the program's fund balance. Jessica said all of the purchases discussed had been paid from the lunch fund and described steps to reduce erroneous charges and expand participation.

District staff said Manor Haven's data now meet the 25% direct-certification threshold needed to apply for CEP. If approved, staff estimated increased participation and incremental revenue for Manor Haven and said the program would start in September if the state approves the district's CEP application. Staff also described uncertainty about a separate, statewide proposal for universal free school meals included in the governor's budget, saying the district had not yet received details on whether the state would fully cover the difference between federal reimbursements and local meal costs.

Most important details and context

- Equipment and purchases: Staff described purchases made from the lunch fund this year including popcorn machines, a food warmer for Manor Haven, convection and combi ovens, dunnage racks, a cold well, ice machines and new cafeteria furniture for…