Nutrition USDA

In order to apply to the OSPI Child and Adult Care Food Program for an early learning center, a director is required to submit current income-eligibility information based on a study month. Program reimbursement for each institution is based on the income levels of the families that they serve. The study month establishes the percentages of the meals that will be paid at the free, reduced-price, and above scale rates. Income-eligibility forms must be filled out and signed by the parent/guardian for each student. Attendance records for the study month need to be submitted to show who the program will benefit. After initial approval into the food program, daily meal counts must be done for each student on a meal count record sheet. All meals must meet USDA standards and any substitutions must be in accordance to the food substitutions guidelines. The benifit to being apart of the food program is reimbursement for part of food costs for the center. This helps in keeping tuition affordable for families by not charging for meals. I would definitely apply to the program for my own center. Anything that helps the families with costs helps the children. More money in the parents pockets to buy food for their homes, pay housing costs, heating bills and so on.

My ECE Philosophy

As a teacher, I seek to form close relationship with each child under my care, and their families. I make use of our communities' resources and incorporate the child’s community into the program. I see each child as a unique individual with a great capacity to learn and able to make positive contributions to those around him or her. I strive to provide an environment where children and families from different cultural backgrounds feel welcomed and accepted. My goal as a teacher is to provide children with a rich environment where they feel safe to explore, initiate learning, and feel free to express themselves.