Skip to main content
California Department of Education Logo

SNP CNIPS Training

School Nutrition Programs (SNP) training information for the Child Nutrition Information and Payment System (CNIPS).

The Nutrition Services Division (NSD) has training resources to assist you with implementation of the Child Nutrition Information and Payment System (CNIPS).

The California Department of Education (CDE) CNIPS web page includes Frequently Asked Questions and updates on the system. In addition to the integrated help feature in the CNIPS, training videos and a comprehensive School Nutrition Programs (SNP) User Manual are available. For assistance, please contact the CNIPS Help Desk by email at CNIPS@cde.ca.gov. You can also look up your county analyst from the School Nutrition Programs Specialist Directory web page.

Recorded Training

This training includes an introductory presentation and "how to" presentation videos for the key components of the CNIPS. The training videos are 5 to 15 minutes in length.

Introductory

  1. Overview External link opens in new window or tab. (Video; 5:06)
    Course Number: 690 - This video provides an overview of the CNIPS with focus on the SNP.

  2. Logging On External link opens in new window or tab. (Video; 6:59)
    Course Number: 600 - This video provides instructions on how to log onto the CNIPS, change your password, add a new user, and update your profile.

  3. Application Packet External link opens in new window or tab. (Video; 24:17)
    Course Number: 536 - This video provides instructions on how to start and complete your application packet and add a new site.

User Manual

SNP Sponsor User Manual (DOC; 11MB; Revised Dec-2010)

Questions:   Help Desk | CNIPS@cde.ca.gov
Last Reviewed: Wednesday, February 04, 2026
Trending in Nutrition
Recently Posted in Nutrition
  • Input Request on CA Universal Meals Implementation (added 16-Mar-2026)
    The California Department of Education, in partnership with the Nutrition Policy Institute, is conducting a voluntary statewide survey to continue to assess the implementation of California Universal Meals; this survey is in follow up to the survey c
  • Updated Sample FSMC RFP and Contract in CNIPS (added 13-Mar-2026)
    An updated Sample Food Service Management Company Request for Proposals and Model Fixed-price Contract document is now available. Updates include revised Buy American and California Agricultural Preference requirements and clarified responsibilities.
  • 2026 SUN Bucks Data Submission (added 13-Mar-2026)
    Information on 2026 SUN Bucks data submission.
  • CEP Application Information (added 12-Mar-2026)
    This listserv provides information on applying for the CEP.
  • Interagency Agreements in School Food Service (added 12-Mar-2026)
    This management bulletin provides guidance on interagency agreement requirements when administering the School Nutrition Programs (SNP) at unaffiliated schools.

  • Tuesdays @ 2 School Nutrition Town Hall (added 12-Mar-2026)
    School Nutrition Town Hall webinar for School Nutrition Program Operators and Food Service Directors.
  • Summer Food Service Program Annual Updates (added 12-Mar-2026)
    The California Department of Education (CDE) Nutrition Services Division (NSD) is pleased to announce that the SFSP 2026 Program Year is now open.
  • Reimbursement for Off-Site Meal Consumption (added 02-Mar-2026)
    SNP-06-2026 provides guidance on serving NSLP and SBP meals for off-site consumption.
  • Honoring Cultural Preferences in School Nutrition (added 02-Mar-2026)
    This webinar highlights best practices for incorporating student cultural food preferences honoring Black voice and other cultures, in menu offerings, strengthen student trust and engagement, and support equity in school meal participation.
  • State Meal Mandate (added 02-Mar-2026)
    SNP-05-2026 addresses the requirements for LEAs to serve and claim NSLP and SBP meals for both state and federal reimbursement.