Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
2025
Department
Nutrition and Food Systems
Abstract
Child nutrition professionals must continually develop knowledge and skills to meet evolving program regulations, nutrition standards, and operational demands. This study examined the training needs and preferred training delivery methods of school nutrition and Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) professionals across the United States.
Using a two-phase research design, researchers conducted a literature review, expert panel review, survey development, and national survey administration. A total of 777 child nutrition professionals, including school nutrition directors, managers, staff, and CACFP personnel, participated in the study. Respondents identified high-priority training topics and preferred methods for receiving training, including in-person, live virtual, and self-paced online formats.
Results indicated that training needs varied by position and program type. High-priority topics included food production, program management, menu planning, financial management, special diets, and regulatory compliance. Preferences for training delivery methods also varied by topic, with participants favoring live virtual and in-person formats for operational subjects and self-paced online formats for compliance-related training. Findings highlight the importance of flexible, role-specific professional development opportunities that support workforce competency and effective program administration.
The results provide guidance for developing targeted training resources that address workforce needs and strengthen child nutrition programs nationwide.
Recommended Citation
Institute of Child Nutrition. (2025). Rapid Response Survey #3: Determining the Training Needs of Child Nutrition Professionals. University, MS: Rushing, K., Al-Juboori, R., & Shahan, M.
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Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research Commons, Other Education Commons, Other Teacher Education and Professional Development Commons