The Weekly Update · Sep. 2, 2026

Net Cash Resources, Buy American Tracking & New Director Training

Here’s what you need to know this week:

Net Cash Resources

As we close the books on SY 25-26, remember that federal regulations require us to limit “net cash resources” (NCR) to 3 months of average operating expenses (☀️ California schools can store up to 6 months NCR). This limit on NCR is intended to ensure program funds are used to continuously improve the school nutrition program.

Now’s the time to monitor this! In California, complete SNP-57. If you have excess NCR, submit the completed SNP-57 to SNPBA@cde.ca.gov, along with a copy of your Unaudited Actuals (Form 13) by Oct. 15. More info here.

And remember, if you have excess funds, it really is a good problem to have! We love helping schools think strategically about where to spend so your funds have the greatest impact for your students and your team. Chat with Mike to learn more about how we can help you build a sustainable spending plan that makes sense for your operation. 🤓

➡️ And… if you’re headed to CSNA in November, we will be doing a session all about reinvesting Net Cash Resources for your program's long-term success. Join us Friday morning of the conference for a lovely chat all about NCR, budgets, spending plans, and more!

Buy American Tracking + Flexibilities

In case you missed it, USDA released a policy memo in June providing accommodations for schools that cannot meet the 10% cap on non-domestic purchases this year. In California, we should submit this online form and save the confirmation email. And remember, even if we have an accommodation on file, we still have to track purchases (we like using this simplified Buy American tracking tool).

✨New Director Training

Years in the making, we’re excited to finally open registration for LunchAssist’s New & Aspiring Directors Academy (NADA)!

NADA is launching Oct. 15 as a nine-month live training program designed to give new and aspiring school nutrition leaders the regulatory knowledge, operational know-how, and leadership foundation we need to confidently navigate California school nutrition programs.

But how much does it cost? Nada! We’re grateful to be able to launch the first cohort of NADA at no cost to PRO members! 🙏 Each attendee must be a PRO member, so if you'd like to attend but are not already a PRO member, email mike@lunchassist.org to sign up.

⭐️ Resources

📆 Upcoming Events

✨ Sep. 3:SNP Administrative Review Kick-Off Call on The Lunch Break!

Sep. 10: Root for Local Food: Let's Cheer for Farm to CACFP - NCA
Sep. 14: Why Won't They Eat? Feeding Across the Spectrum - ASPHN
Sep. 15: Free Healthy School Meals for All Cong. Briefing - NHSMA Coalition
Sep. 16: Sourcing Locally with Shared Purchasing - Center for Ecoliteracy

LunchAssist is an allowable use of the Cafeteria Fund, KIT Funds, and R&R Grant. 🥳 Schedule a demo to learn more.

← All issues