
Building and Evolving the Meal Program
Elgin Math and Science Academy

Introduction
Since the expiration of Covid-related waivers that offered maximum flexibility for SFAs during the height of the pandemic, we’ve entered an era in which schools are constantly grappling with countless new mandates and operational challenges while trying to balance adhering to regulations and managing their meal programs.
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Through our work supporting over 300 schools across the United States, Elgin Math & Science Academy (EMSA) stands out because of their unwavering commitment to their child nutrition program. With an initial vision to develop a robust program but limited expertise in school food administration, they turned to School Food and Wellness Group (SFWG) and our team of experts to guide them in implementing this new adventure.
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Our partnership has blossomed from helping them meet federal and state regulations to supporting in elevating the quality and efficiency of their food service operations, ensuring nutritious and delicious meals for students daily and a sustainable, compliant program model.
Partner Overview
EMSA's Vision
EMSA is a public K-8 charter school located in Elgin, Illinois. Officially opened in the Fall of 2018, EMSA was created through the collaborative efforts of community members who envisioned a school that brings science and math to life for students in the Elgin area and surrounding communities.
EMSA's Mission
EMSA is dedicated to fostering each child’s unique potential through exemplary standards of character, academic achievement, and social responsibility. The school’s mission is built on the principles of EL Education, focusing on a real-world, community-engaged approach to learning. EMSA strives to create an inclusive environment where students are encouraged to explore their abilities, values, and passions.
EMSA's Fast Facts

SFWG's Fast Facts

Project Background
As a new school facing the complexities of becoming an SFA without prior experience, EMSA struggled with logistical and compliance difficulties that created challenges for launching a successful school nutrition program.
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Inadequate facilities and a lack of clear strategy were significant hurdles, and recognizing the need for specialized knowledge and strategic direction, the school sought the expertise of SFWG, a nationally recognized child nutrition consulting firm, to navigate the intricate requirements of the SFA application and to build a foundation that would support a robust meal program.​​

Partnership Development
The collaboration began with an assessment of the existing capabilities and immediate needs of the school. Our team provided hands-on guidance in becoming an SFA and ensuring compliance with all other regulatory requirements.
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To address facility inadequacies, we supported in designing a kitchen that met both budgetary constraints and operational demands. This move not only facilitated the implementation of a fully functioning kitchen, but also set the stage for future endeavors.
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The partnership grew when we supported the transition from the state-mandated Invitation for Bid (IFB) to a Request for Proposal (RFP) for procuring a food service management company. This shift, advocated and guided by SFWG, allowed for a more holistic evaluation of vendors, focusing on criteria such as nutritional standards, quality of food, and overall service quality. Our involvement was crucial in obtaining the necessary state approvals for this procurement method, marking a significant shift in the procurement strategy.
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Our support also extended through various challenges, including navigating the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the school’s program. We provided strategic advice that helped maintain service quality and program integrity during these trying times.
Outcomes
Compliance
The school is fully supported by SFWG in meeting all federal and state guidelines for all ensuring the compliance and continuation of funding for the school’s meal program initiatives.
Your support in establishing the necessary policies and procedures was instrumental in achieving compliance with all regulatory requirements. We wouldn’t have been able to do it without your guidance.
Dan Alexander, Chief Operating Officer at EMSA
Financial Stability and Growth
Strategic advice and operational improvements implemented through our partnership not only helped stabilize, but also enhanced the financial wellbeing of the school’s nutrition program.
With your help, we’ve been able to implement programs that not only meet immediate needs but also contribute to our long-term financial growth and stability.
Dan Alexander, Chief Operating Officer at EMSA
Enhanced Food Quality and Student Satisfaction
The transition to an RFP from a state-mandated IFB allowed the school to select a food service management company that offered higher quality food, leading to improved student satisfaction and dramatic increases in meal participation rates.

Robust Audit Preparation and Support
We provided rigorous audit support, preparing the school for both scheduled and unscheduled audits, which included successfully navigating a CACFP audit.
Having experts like you walk us through each step and ensure we were fully compliant was invaluable. It gave us confidence and clarity during the audits.
Dan Alexander, Chief Operating Officer at EMSA
Client Empowerment and Capacity Building
Continuous support and training empowered school staff to independently oversee and grow their nutritional program.

With our support, EMSA has seen dramatic increases in participation YoY.
Ongoing support and training from your team have empowered our staff and administrators to handle day-to-day operations more effectively. We’ve gained the skills and tools necessary to manage and expand our nutritional program.
Dan Alexander, Chief Operating Officer at EMSA
The Change Makers
The successful transformation of Phalen Leadership Academies’ meal program was made possible by the dedicated efforts of the following individuals, who each brought their expertise, strategic insight, and commitment to ensuring compliance and operational efficiency.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, EMSA is set to implement several exciting initiatives to continue improving and expanding their meal program.
Kitchen Expansion
Upgrading kitchen equipment to expand menu options, including pasta and soups, and improve preparation efficiency for cafeteria staff.
A La Carte Program
Introducing an a la carte program to offer more food choices for students and staff while helping maintain financial sustainability of the child nutrition program.
Universal Supper
Through extensive planning and partnership with their Food Service Management Company, EMSA will expand the supper program in SY 24-25 to ensure all students have access to nutritious meals after school hours, aiming for 100% participation.
These future projects reflect EMSA’s commitment to continuous improvement and innovation, supported by the strategic guidance and expertise of School Food and Wellness Group.

Conclusion
Our collaboration with EMSA exemplifies how strategic guidance and expert support can transform a basic compliance requirement into an opportunity for innovation and community benefit. The success of this partnership has not only improved the nutritional outcomes for students, but has also set a benchmark for other schools looking to enhance their food service programs
Join the many schools that have benefited from our tailored solutions and dedicated service. Contact us today at hello@sfwgroup.org to discover how we can help your school achieve similar success and make a lasting impact on your students’ well-being.