Ace Your Next NSLP Administrative Review: Key Tips for Success

Participating in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) means schools must undergo regular administrative reviews to ensure compliance with federal standards. These reviews are critical for maintaining program funding, meeting nutritional guidelines, and ensuring students have access to healthy meals that support their learning and well-being. However, the process can feel overwhelming without proper preparation.

The good news? You don’t have to navigate this alone! At School Food and Wellness Group, we specialize in helping schools successfully prepare for administrative reviews; whether you need guidance on documentation, staff training, or compliance strategies, our team can provide customized support tailored to your school’s needs.

What to Expect During the Review Process

The administrative review typically includes several stages:

1. Notification

Your state agency will notify you of your review date by email. It’s essential to stay on top of communication and deadlines to set the tone for a smooth audit. Some states may also post the review schedule on their website. Make sure to keep track of important dates and set reminders for submission deadlines to avoid missing any crucial steps.

2. Pre-Audit Documentation

Be prepared to submit key documents, such as financial records, menu details, production records, and invoices before the review. These documents help auditors assess compliance with program requirements. While some states review these documents in advance, others may complete this process onsite. Ensure all documentation is accurate, well-organized, and readily available to facilitate a smoother review process.

3. Onsite Visit

State auditors will visit your campus for 1-2 days (or longer, depending on the size of your SFA) to observe meal service, review documentation, and evaluate food safety practices.

During the onsite visit, they may interview staff, examine kitchen facilities, and verify compliance with menu requirements. Make sure your team is well-prepared and designate a point person to liaise with the auditors.

4. Final Report

After the review, you’ll receive a report detailing any findings and required corrective actions. Responding promptly and thoroughly is crucial to ensuring compliance. Use the final report as a learning tool to improve your processes and prevent future findings.

Key Areas of Review

1. Eligibility

Ensure the accurate classification of students for free, reduced-price, or paid meals based on household income or participation in assistance programs.

Organize Documentation: Maintain a file of approved applications, notification letters, and direct certification matches.
Conduct Internal Audits: Regularly review your eligibility documentation to ensure accuracy and completeness.
Train Staff: Provide training on eligibility criteria and proper documentation procedures to prevent errors during the review.

2. Meal Counting & Claiming

Maintain precise systems for counting meals served and ensure they align with students' eligibility status.

Use Reliable Systems: Whether using electronic point-of-sale systems or manual tick sheets, implement proper checks.
Prevent Common Errors: Ensure that meal counts are accurate and consistently recorded.
Reconcile Records: Regularly reconcile meal counts with claim submissions to avoid discrepancies during the review.

3. Meal Patterns & Nutritional Quality

The USDA mandates specific nutritional standards for student meals. Verify that all meals meet requirements for fruits, vegetables, grains, proteins, and milk.

Use Standardized Recipes: Ensure that your recipes meet nutritional guidelines and portion requirements.
Keep Production Records: Maintain detailed production records that show portion sizes, the number of servings prepared, and any substitutions made.
Conduct Self-Assessments: Periodically review your menus and meals for compliance to prevent findings during the audit.

4. Resource Management

Track every reimbursement dollar to ensure compliance with program funding requirements.

Maintain Clear Records: Keep detailed financial records, including budgets, invoices, and expenditure reports.
Understand Allowable Costs: Familiarize yourself with allowable costs under NSLP guidelines. Common allowable costs include food, labor, and supplies directly related to meal service.
Avoid Unallowable Costs: Ensure that program funds are not used for unallowable expenses, such as remodeling or purchases unrelated to the meal program.

5. Procurement Compliance

Follow all procurement guidelines to ensure transparency and cost-effectiveness.

Document the Process: Keep thorough documentation of bids, contracts, and purchase orders.
Adhere to Thresholds: Be aware of procurement thresholds and ensure proper procedures are followed for small purchases, informal bids, and formal contracts.
Train Your Team: Ensure that staff involved in procurement are well-versed in federal and state requirements to avoid common mistakes such as missing approvals or incomplete records.

Preparing for Success

Organize Your Documentation

Consolidate records in key areas: eligibility, meal counting, procurement, and financial reports. Ensure these documents are up-to-date and easily accessible.

Create a Centralized System: Use binders, digital folders, or a document management system to keep everything in one place.
Label Clearly: Clearly label and categorize your files to make it easier for auditors to review.

Train Your Team

Conduct mock audits and daily compliance checks to familiarize staff with review procedures.

Role-Play Audits: Simulate audit scenarios to help your team understand what to expect during the onsite visit.
Ongoing Training: Regularly update staff on changes in NSLP regulations and best practices.

Focus on Accuracy

Errors in meal counting, documentation, or procurement can result in findings of non-compliance. Double-check your processes to minimize mistakes.

Implement Checklists: Use daily and weekly checklists to ensure all tasks are completed accurately.
Conduct Internal Reviews: Schedule periodic internal reviews to catch and correct errors before the official audit.

Maintain a Compliance-First Mindset

Maintaining compliance year-round ensures smooth program operations and reduces stress during reviews.

Regular Monitoring: Continuously monitor program operations and address issues as they arise.
Stay Informed: Keep up with changes in federal and state regulations to ensure ongoing compliance.

After the Review: Corrective Action

If your review identifies areas for improvement, treat the corrective action phase as an opportunity to strengthen your program.

Understand the Findings

Restate the issues in your own words to show comprehension.

Ask for Clarification: If any findings are unclear, don’t hesitate to seek clarification from the auditors.
Involve Your Team: Ensure the relevant staff members understand the findings and their role in the corrective action process.

Develop a Plan

Outline specific actions taken to address each issue, detail ongoing monitoring strategies, and include any retraining conducted.

Set Deadlines: Assign deadlines for each corrective action to ensure timely completion.
Monitor Progress: Regularly check the progress of corrective actions and adjust your plan as needed.

Submit Supporting Documentation

Attach relevant documents to confirm your compliance.

Provide Evidence: Include before-and-after examples, retraining records, and updated procedures as proof of corrective actions taken.
Follow Up: Regularly check for approval of your corrective action plan to ensure all issues are resolved.

Takeaway

Preparation and organization are integral for a smooth administrative review. With the right approach, the review process can become an opportunity to refine your school meal program and demonstrate its positive impact on students.

If you’re looking for expert support, we’re here to help. Our experienced team can guide you through every step of the process, from organizing documentation to corrective action planning. Contact us today at hello@sfwgroup.org for a free introductory call and discover how we can provide tailored solutions to ensure your success!

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