In March 2023, Nutrition Policy Institute researchers conducted an online survey to examine Colorado foodservice directors' experiences after federal waivers that allowed all schools to offer school meals free of charge to all students ended in the 2022-23 school year. Survey results highlight how Colorado’s transition negatively affected meal participation, school foodservice financial stability, and operational procedures, specifically rises in unpaid meal charges, increased staffing challenges, reduced foodservice revenue and increased administrative burden. Notably, only about a quarter of districts reported that current federal reimbursements covered the full cost of producing breakfast and lunch, highlighting the financial strain experienced by school foodservice. Foodservice directors reported that higher federal reimbursement rates, technical assistance, and additional training could further strengthen program sustainability. Continued federal and state support, clear communication, and adequate funding are essential to supporting effective school meal programs. The full research brief is available online. This research was funded to evaluate California’s Universal School Meals through CA SB 170 (2021), CA SB 154 (2022), and CA SB 101 (2023).
