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District reports rapid food distributions and plans for districtwide 'share table' policy
Summary
Officials reported a recent food distribution of 450 grocery bags and described plans for a Dec. 23 distribution; board discussed creating a districtwide share-table policy with student involvement and emphasized food-safety and legal review.
The Board of Education heard updates on food-service work and emergency distributions on Nov. 24, with officials describing a recent event that distributed 450 grocery bags in less than an hour and announcing an upcoming distribution on Dec. 23.
The district’s food-service task group said the distribution reached families quickly and that the next event (Dec. 23, 1–4:30 p.m.) will be held at multiple schools including John Martinez and Lincoln Bassett and will allow families to choose items to better meet cultural preferences. "Allowing families to take food that they would like allows the distribution team to be more responsive to cultural groups," a district presenter said.
Board members praised the district’s rapid response during a lapse in federally provided SNAP emergency funds, saying New Haven stepped in with two large distributions at Lincoln Bassett and John Martinez. Mayor Ellerker and staff described hands-on participation.
Members also discussed drafting a districtwide share-table policy (where students may share uneaten packaged food) and emphasized food-safety procedures and legal review before any districtwide rollout. The board directed staff to continue policy development with student input and to consult food-service leaders and legal counsel.
