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School committee approves wellness policy over public concern about snack limits
Summary
The Berlin‑Boylston Regional School Committee approved a federally informed Wellness Policy 4–2 after public comment warned it could prompt students to buy multiple small snacks; district staff said DESE consultation indicates approval is required to remain in compliance.
The Berlin‑Boylston Regional School Committee approved a district Wellness Policy on Aug. 27, 2024, voting 4–2 after a discussion about how federal and state nutrition rules would affect a la carte snack options.
Parents and community members told the committee the policy could have unintended effects. "It could result in students buying more than one snack due to how small the calorie packs are," said Ms. Beth Mancini of Berlin during the public‑comment period.
District staff and committee members said the policy implements federal and state rules and that the district consulted the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) while drafting it. "These are federal regulations," said Mrs. Lisa Mair, noting the policy language reflects state and federal requirements. Administrators and the policy subcommittee said approving the policy is necessary to keep federal meal funding and to bring the district into compliance.
Committee members debated potential downsides. Mrs. Julie Lee said she worried the policy could unintentionally encourage different behaviors and pushed for student and community input; Mr. Michael Totman also opposed the policy. The motion passed with Mrs. Lisa Mair, Mrs. Lori‑Anne Hart, Mrs. Jessica Deglialberti and Mrs. Meagan Grill voting yes; Mr. Totman and Mrs. Lee voted no.
The committee said it will use the district Wellness Committee to share the policy with students, families and staff and to present alternatives and educational materials so community members understand the rationale and implementation rules. Staff said fundraising with food that does not meet the smart‑snack list must be removed from sale 30 minutes after school ends and will not be available the next day.
Next steps include posting the approved policy and scheduling further outreach; the policy subcommittee will also meet with stakeholders to discuss survey language and other implementation concerns raised during public comment.
