Skip to main content
California Department of Education Logo

Webinar: Universal Meals Listening Session #2

Information about requirements and best practices for implementing the California Universal Meals Program in school year 2022–23.

On November 2, 2021, the California Department of Education (CDE) hosted its second Universal Meals Listening Session webinar for school food service operators, chief business officials, and community partners, providing an opportunity for schools and community partners to learn more about the California Universal Meals Program.

The webinar included an introduction from the State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Tony Thurmond, provided an overview of Universal Meals, answered frequently asked questions, and featured presentations from three advocacy groups who discussed innovative ideas for minimizing food waste, the importance of breakfast, and strategies for maximizing identified student percentages used in the federal Community Eligibility Provision.


To view additional Universal Meals Listening sessions, go to the California Universal Meals web page and select the Resources tab.

Contact Information

If you have any questions regarding this subject, please email SNPInfo@cde.ca.gov.

Questions:   Nutrition Services Division | 800-952-5609
Last Reviewed: Thursday, August 14, 2025
Recently Posted in Nutrition

  • 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.
  • Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025-2030 (added 27-Feb-2026)
    Announcing an update to the new Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025-2030 - Eat Real Food