Questions and Answers for Child Nutrition Program Reporting in SY 2021-22

This memorandum contains questions and answers intended to provide clarification to state and local agencies on child nutrition administrative reporting requirements in school year 2021-22. Topics covered include reporting of National School Lunch Program (NSLP) Seamless Summer Option (SSO) meals and snacks reimbursed at the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) payment rates, as well as other COVID-19 related reporting issues.

Pursuant to authority in Section 2202(a) of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (the FFCRA) (PL 116-127), as extended by the Continuing Appropriations Act 2021 and Other Extensions Act (PL 116-159), and based on the exceptional circumstances of this public health emergency, the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) has issued several nationwide waivers and flexibilities. The child nutrition program nationwide waivers for SY 2021-22 are available online at https://www.fns.usda.gov/disaster/pandemic/cn-2021-22-waivers-and-flexibilities. The nationwide waivers include allowing school food authorities (SFAs) to participate in the SSO when school is open during the regular school year in SY 2021-22 and allowing SSO meals and snacks served to be paid at the higher SFSP rate.

FNS appreciates the continued efforts of state agencies and local program operators to meet the nutritional needs of children during this challenging time. State agencies are reminded to distribute this memorandum to program operators immediately. Program operators should direct any questions concerning this guidance to their state agency. State agencies with questions should contact the appropriate FNS regional office.

Sarah E. Smith-Holmes
Director
Program Monitoring and Operational Support Division
Child Nutrition Programs

Attachment

• Seamless Summer Option Reporting (SSO)