2027 Quizapalooza: Are You a Meal Pattern Super Star?

Think you know the CACFP meal pattern like the back of your hand? From meal components and required serving sizes to substitutions and age-specific variations, there is always more to uncover. This refreshed and interactive experience invites CACFP operators to revisit key requirements, strengthen their understanding and discover new insights through engaging polls and interactive learning! ~ CEU Specialty 2

1. Review exceptions in the CACFP meal pattern.
2. Identify foods that are not creditable in the CACFP.
3. Strengthen documentation practices to ensure compliance and audit readiness.

Presented by: Isabel Ramos-Lebron, MS, RDN, LD, National CACFP Association

 

Afterschool Meals Overview

Learn the essentials of the CACFP and how afterschool programs can serve healthy meals, meet USDA requirements and receive federal reimbursement while playing a vital role in supporting children’s nutrition and food security. This overview will help you understand the foundational principles of the CACFP and show how your program can make a lasting impact in the fight against childhood hunger. ~ CEU Specialty 2

1. Explain how afterschool programs provide a supportive environment for children.
2. Identify the requirements to operate the CACFP in ARAS locations.
3. Get resources and next steps for providing snacks and meals afterschool.

Presented by: Isabel Ramos-Lebron, MS, RDN, LD, National CACFP Association

 

Annual Meeting

Members of the National CACFP Association are invited to attend our annual meeting to learn about where the organization is today and find out what we have planned for the future. Our mission is to provide you with educational resources, training opportunities and guidance on federal program policies. See member invitation for room location.

Presented by: Alexia Thex, MEd, National CACFP Association

 

CACFP Certification Overview

Interested in learning more about how to earn the CACFP Management Professional or the CACFP Child Nutrition Professional designation? Join NCA staff and board members to hear why the program was started, what the qualifications are and next steps to getting the certification complete.

Presented by: Sarah Hogestyn, National CACFP Association

 

CACFP Creditable Tools & Resources

Learn about the nutrition education resources which are available free-of-charge, including the guides for Identifying Whole Grain-Rich, determining sugar content in cereals and yogurt and which milk to serve in the CACFP. ~ CEU Specialty 3

1. Learn where to find free nutrition education resources.
2. Discover different types of resources.
3. Learn how to apply nutrition education resources.

Presented by: Brittany Uribe, MBA, National CACFP Association

 

CACFP Meal Pattern Exceptions

The meal patterns are generally straightforward, however, there are some exceptions to the rules. Learn what to look for, how to menu plan with these in mind and how they can benefit your meal service. ~ CEU Specialty 2

1. Get answers to commonly asked questions.
2. Discover how to find resources to tackle exceptions.
3. Understand how these impact your CACFP operations.

Presented by: Melinda Nguyen, MS, RDN, LD, National CACFP Association

 

CACFP Overview

You’re new-ish to the food program and concepts in the CACFP may not be as foreign to you, but you’d love to really explore the important areas in the CACFP. Join us as we review the meal patterns, identify basic program administration and get a refresher on how reimbursement works in the CACFP. ~ CEU Specialty 2

1. Learn the basic requirements in administrative review.
2. Understand how CACFP reimbursement works.
3. Discuss the CACFP meal patterns.

Presented by: Isabel Ramos-Lebron, MS, RDN, LD, National CACFP Association

 

Industry Partner Exclusive

Join us for an exclusive gathering of NCA Industry Partners. Get the latest policy updates and meet with NCA leadership.

*by invitation only

Presented by: Alexia Thex, MEd, National CACFP Association

 

Navigating the Conference

Join us for a special session designed to help you make the most of the 2027 National Child Nutrition Conference. Whether you're joining us onsite in Chicago or participating virtually, we'll walk you through the conference schedule and share practical tips to help you plan your experience with confidence.

Consider this your insider preview and your chance to get a head start on navigating everything the conference has to offer. It's also the perfect introduction to what makes this conference special: fresh ideas, shared purpose, and a community dedicated to advancing child nutrition together.

Don't miss this informative kickoff. It's the ideal way to prepare, get excited, and set yourself up for success at the 2027 National Child Nutrition Conference.

Presented by: 

Alexia Thex, MEd, National CACFP Association

Brittany Uribe, MBA, National CACFP Association

 

Navigating the Conference Q&A

Brittany Uribe, MBA, Senior Event Specialist, National CACFP Association

Start your conference with confidence! Learn what to expect, how to navigate the schedule, and make the most of your 2027 National Child Nutrition Conference experience. Bring your questions and get insider tips to help you plan your week. After the session, we'll lead a guided tour of the conference space so you can familiarize yourself with key locations before the conference officially begins.

Presented by: Brittany Uribe, MBA, National CACFP Association

 

NCNC27 Guided Tour

Join us immediately after the Navigating the Conference Q&A session for a guided tour of the conference venue. We'll show you where everything is happening, point out key locations, answer questions along the way, and help you feel comfortable and ready before the conference officially begins.

Presented by: Brittany Uribe, MBA, National CACFP Association

 

Professional Networking Strategies & Tips

Strong professional relationships can open doors to new ideas, resources and career opportunities. In this interactive session, you'll learn practical networking strategies and immediately put them into practice. Build meaningful connections, expand your professional network, and leave with valuable tips and confidence to continue the conversation beyond the conference. ~ CEU Specialty 6

1. Discover simple strategies for building authentic relationships.
2. Engage in networking activities with attendees.
3. Leave with new connections, ideas and resources to support your success.

Presented by: Alexia Thex, MEd, National CACFP Association

 

SFSP Overview

Unsure about what SFSP even means? Are you brand new to child nutrition food programs? Do you run one program and are thinking about sponsoring another? Learn how this summer food program provides healthy food access for children in child care, afterschool and out-of-school time during the summer months when school is out of session. ~ CEU Specialty 8

Understand the basics of SFSP.

Identify the need for summer meals.

Learn the types of sites and how areas of eligibility are determined.

Presented by: Melinda Nguyen, MS, RDN, LD, National CACFP Association

 

State Agency Collaboration

Take the opportunity to connect with other State agency staff and participate in an open discussion to exchange ideas with one another.

By invitation only.

Presented by: 

McKenzie Brunner, MGPS, National CACFP Association

Alexia Thex, MEd, National CACFP Association