Attachment B.2.1: SFA Study Overview

Attachment B.2.1 – SFA Study Overview

Review of Child Nutrition Data and Analysis

for Program Management

Study Description

The USDA Food and Nutrition Service is conducting an important study of Child Nutrition Data Management Information Systems (MIS). The goal of the study is to determine the current functionality of State and School Food Authority (SFA) data management information systems used to administer the National School Lunch Program and the School Breakfast Program (NSLP/SBP). While the project will document how MIS are used to fulfill required program reporting, a key component of this research will be to document how MIS support non-reported program management data. FNS’ contractor IMPAQ International, LLC will conduct a State School Nutrition Management Information System (MIS) Survey of all State agencies responsible for administering NSLP/SBP, and a SFA School Nutrition Management Information System (MIS) Survey of a nationally representative sample of SFAs.

Study Goal and Objectives

Goal: Determine the baseline “as is” functionality of State and SFA NSLP/SBP data management information systems.

Objectives:

1. Describe the development and history of current state and SFA NSLP/SBP data MIS.

2. Describe the capabilities of current state and SFA NSLP/SBP data MIS.

3. Describe the maintenance and management of current state and SFA NSLP/SBP data MIS.

Why this Study is Important

Current state and federal data collection requirements for the NSLP/SBP are based on manual, paper-based reporting and early computer approaches that rely on paper reports and provide very little detail on variation in program operations at the local level.  However, many school districts and states use well-developed electronic data management systems for all aspects of school nutrition program operations and reporting - from nutrition analysis to meal reimbursement claiming.  These systems eliminate the need for paper reports and often minimize the reporting time burden.  In order to improve reporting quality and overall program management, this study will document overall NSLP/SBP State and local system design, capabilities, functions, costs, challenges, lifespan and uses beyond fulfilling reporting requirements to FNS. With this knowledge, FNS will better identify and disseminate best practices and system standards for School Nutrition MIS.

We look forward to your participation!

We greatly appreciate your support in making this a successful study. If you have any questions regarding this project, please contact Madeleine Levin at IMPAQ by email at [email protected] or by phone at 202-774-1982 or FNS [Headquarters contact]