A district receiving the District of Excellence Distinction in School Nutrition has completed the Keys to Excellence "Keys Express" online self-assessment in each of the four "key" areas. Then the district has completed and submitted a District of Excellence Distinction in School Nutrition application to the School Nutrition Foundation to demonstrate that the district operations truly meet best practice standards. Each school year, all District of Excellence Distinction recipients are also eligible to apply for the District of the Year Award. District of Excellence applications are reviewed by an expert peer review panel twice per year. The 2008-2009 application deadlines are November 30, 2009 and March 31, 2010.
How to Apply
- Assess your district’s operation by using the Keys Express online self-assessment tool. There is no required score, as this is self-assessment. However, the District of Excellence application directly reflects the Keys Express categories and questions.
- Review the District of Excellence application. Read all information carefully, particularly the instructions and explanations carefully.
- Complete and submit the District of Excellence application to SNA by November 30, 2009 or March 31, 2010.
- 2009-2010 District of Excellence Application (PDF)
- 2009-2010 District of Excellence Application (Microsoft Word)
Tips for a Successful Application
- Consider your district’s operations candidly against the self-assessment. The District of Excellence application assesses actual documentation against the standards.
- If your district does not meet best practices, focus your efforts on improving the areas identified as weaknesses before applying for District of Excellence.
- Read the entire application carefully, refer to the Frequently Asked Questions, and contact SNA for any additional clarification or questions that you may have.
- Review the policies and procedures regarding the application review and notification process carefully prior to submitting your application.