Richfield nutrition director reports stable participation increases, local-apple program and FFVP changes

Richfield — The Richfield Public School District’s director of nutrition services told the school board the department saw modest increases in meal participation this year, outlined grant-funded initiatives and reported a satisfactory federal administrative review with minor corrective items.

Director Michael Manning began the presentation by stating the program mission: “Our goal is to create a warm and welcoming environment for every student, every meal, every day.” He reviewed programs the district offers, including breakfast-in-the-classroom at the elementary schools; a hybrid grab-and-go and traditional breakfast at secondary sites; the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) for after-school snack and supper at certain sites; and a grant-funded Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) that provides a fruit or vegetable daily to…