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Training and Technical Assistance

Maryland School Meals are planned, prepared, and served by a diverse group of school nutrition professionals, committed to supporting students through the school day with nutritious meals and snacks.


The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) created Professional Standards in 2015, a set of annual training requirements and hiring standards that strengthen the ability of school nutrition professionals to perform their duties effectively and efficiently.  

MSDE OSCNP creates, coordinates, and facilitates training opportunities that build the knowledge, skills, and resources school nutrition staff need to assure the success of the School Meals programs. 


Training Provided by MSDE

Annual Program Training

Annual administrative training to provide updates on USDA regulations and guidance, and professional development

  • School Meals: National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and School Breakfast Program (SBP) (Twice-annual)
  • Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) offered for each agency type
    • Child care centers
    • Afterschool Meals Programs  
    • Emergency shelters 
    • Adult day care centers 
    • Family child care sponsoring organizations
  • Summer Food Service Program (SFSP)
  • Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP)


Administrative Review Training for School Meals

Online course designed to prepare local education agencies for the Administrative Review of their School Meals Programs


Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) – Basics

Orientation to major aspects of administering the CACFP at a Child Care Center Designed for new program operators, new staff at existing CACFP agencies, or participating agencies who need a refresher 


Special Topics Training

  • Food Safety Training for School Nutrition Professionals
    Using the National Restaurant Association's ServSafe curricula and certification exam. ServSafe Manager Training and Certification is a nationally recognized food safety credential in the foodservice industry. The audience for this training includes School Nutrition Managers, Supervisors, Directors, and others required to receive a minimum of 8 hours of Food Safety Training for the USDA Professional Standards training requirements.  This course meets or exceeds the requirements for local jurisdictions that require food service certification for managers. 




Training Provided Other Organizations

MSDE also promotes training opportunities hosted by reliable organizations, including USDA Team Nutrition, the Institute of Child Nutrition (ICN), and the Culinary Institute of Child Nutrition (CICN).