SNA STATE ASSOCIATION
PROGRAM APPROVAL GUIDE
Revised August 2014. ©Copyright 2010-2014 by the School Nutrition Association. All rights reserved.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Core Courses ................................................................................................................................................. 3
Core Course Approval Guidelines ............................................................................................................. 3
Denying Core Courses ............................................................................................................................... 4
Key Area Programs ....................................................................................................................................... 5
Key Area Program Approval Guidelines.................................................................................................... 5
Listing of Courses by Key Area .................................................................................................................. 7
Denying Key Area Programs ..................................................................................................................... 8
Continuing Education Units (CEUs) .............................................................................................................. 9
CEU Approval Guidelines .......................................................................................................................... 9
CEU Suggestion Table ............................................................................................................................. 11
Denying CEUs .......................................................................................................................................... 12
Individual Responsibilities for Maintaining CEUs...................................................................................... 13
Individual’s General CEU Guidelines....................................................................................................... 14
CEU Documentation for Audits............................................................................................................... 14
Forms .......................................................................................................................................................... 15
State Conference Education Session Tracking Form .............................................................................. 16
Core Course Approval Form ................................................................................................................... 19
Sample Key Area Program Approval Form ............................................................................................. 21
Key Area Program Certificate Template ................................................................................................. 24
Key Area Webinar Proof of Attendance Template ................................................................................. 25
Sample CEU Approval Form .................................................................................................................... 26
Sample Attendance Roster for CEUs ...................................................................................................... 28
CEU Certificate Template........................................................................................................................ 30
CEU Webinar Proof of Attendance Template ......................................................................................... 31
FAQs – Certificate & Credentialing Program ............................................................................................. 32
2
CORE COURSES
 Core Courses are required at all levels of SNA’s Certificate in School Nutrition:


8 hour SNA-Approved Nutrition Education Core Course
8 hour SNA-Approved Food Safety & Sanitation Core Course
 To view the listing of SNA-Approved Core Courses please visit,
http://www.schoolnutrition.org/Certificate/Approved-Nutrition-Education/
 Core Courses can also be used for SNA certificate and SNS credentialing renewal CEUs.
 When applying for an SNA certificate, Core Courses cannot date back further than 5 years of
the application date.
 Individuals can enroll in online Core Courses via SNA’s School Nutrition University at
www.snuniversity.org or via the National Food Service Management Institute at
http://www.nfsmi.org/Templates/TemplateDefault.aspx?qs=cElEPTIzOA==.
CORE COURSE APPROVAL GUIDELINES

All Core Courses must be approved by SNA Headquarters.

SNA is responsible for tracking approved Core Courses.

Core Courses must be at least 8 hours of active instructional time (does not include registration
time or breaks)

Core Courses can be broken down into modules (i.e. two 4 hour sessions = 8 hours or four 2 hour
sessions = 8 hours).

State Associations, third party associations, industry members, individuals, chapters and school
districts must submit to SNA the Core Course Approval Form (see Core Course Approval Form on
Pages 19-20)

State Associations, third party associations, industry members, individuals, chapters and school
districts must provide to SNA course materials that will be helpful in course evaluation, including
course objectives, presentations, manuals, videos, scripts, course syllabus, etc.

SNA will review the request for acceptance as a Core Course. If approved, SNA will send
notification via email and send a template of the certificate of completion.

State Associations, third party associations, industry members, individuals, chapters and school
districts must provide each course attendee with a certificate of completion.

Individuals applying for a SNA certificate or moving levels are responsible for submitting the
certificate of completion.
3

SNA will add the approved Core Course in the database.

Core Course approval will be good for 5 years from the date of approval.

State Associations, third party associations, industry members, individuals, chapters and school
districts must submit updated course information to SNA every five years.

SNA will notify State Associations, third party associations, industry members, individuals,
chapters and school districts when their course is up for “re-validation”.
Core Course applications will be denied for the following reasons:

SNA does not receive enough background or content information to evaluate the course.

The course was not related directly to Nutrition Education or Food Safety & Sanitation.

The course was not a minimum of 8 hours of instructional time.
4
KEY AREA PROGRAMS
 Applying for certificate Level 2 and Level 3 requires Key Area programs.
 Key Area programs can also be used for SNA certificate and SNS credentialing renewal CEUs.
 When applying for an SNA certificate, Key Area courses cannot date back further than 5 years of
the application date.
 Individuals can enroll in online Key Area courses via SNA’s School Nutrition University at
www.snuniversity.org or via the National Food Service Management Institute at
http://www.nfsmi.org/Templates/TemplateDefault.aspx?qs=cElEPTIzOA==.
KEY AREA PROGRAM APPROVAL GUIDELINES
State Associations should follow the following general guidelines for reviewing educational activities
for Key Area programs:

State Association developed programs such as State Association pre-conference sessions,
programs, webinars, and online courses do not require approval by SNA Headquarters (see State
Conference Education Session Tracking Form on pages 16-18).

State Associations are able to approve in-state Key Area programs offered by third party
associations, industry members, individuals, chapters and school districts.

Third party associations, industry members, individuals, chapters and school districts offering Key
Area programs within a state must receive approval from the SNA State Association. For
example, if a local distributor, food broker, trainer, registered dietician, fire department, or
association wants to offer Key Area Hours for a program in your state they must request approval
from the State Association.

Third party associations, industry members, individuals, chapters and school districts offering Key
Area programs in more than one state or an annual conference must receive approval from SNA
Headquarters. For example if a local distributor, food broker, trainer, registered dietician, fire
department, or association wants to offer the program in more than one state or nationwide,
they will have to request approval from SNA headquarters.

Third party associations, industry members, individuals, chapters and school districts seeking
approval for programs offering Key Area Hours must submit the Key Area Program Approval
Form (see Sample Key Area Program Approval Form on Pages 21-23).

All Key Area programs must be approved before the activity takes place.

SNA Approved Education Providers are organizations that are able to approve their own
developed programs and offer Key Area Hours. Those providers are:
o School Nutrition Association (SNA)
o School Nutrition Foundation (SNF)
o SNA State Associations
o State Agencies – State Department of Education (DOE)
5
o
o
o
o
US Department of Agriculture (USDA)
National Food Service Management Institute (NFSMI)
Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND)
Dietary Managers Association (DMA)

Key Area programs must be at least 2 hours of active instructional time (does not include
registration time, meals or breaks)

Key Area programs can be broken down into modules/bundles (i.e. two 60 minute sessions = 2 hours or
three 60 minute sessions = 3 hours).

Key Area programs need to be in line with the Keys to Excellence: (see the Listing of Courses by
Key Area on Page 7).
Key Area 1 - Operations
Key Area 2 – Nutrition, Nutrition Education and Physical Activity
Key Area 3 – Administration
Key Area 4 – Marketing and Communications

Third party associations, industry members, individuals, chapters and school districts must
provide the State Association with program materials that will be helpful in program evaluation,
including program objectives, presentations, manuals, videos, scripts, course syllabus, etc.

All Key Area program approval requests submitted to the State Association by a third party
association, industry member, individual, chapter or school district must include:
.
Printed Program
Program Description
Program Outline/Agenda (including timing, subject, registration, breaks,
mealtimes)
Speaker Qualifications/Degree/Current Position
Program Evaluation Form
Note: If the program is a Home Study Course, participants must complete an
evaluation (test) that documents that the course was completed and submit it
to the educational provider.

Key Area programs can be taught by any state professional. State Associations will review the
request for acceptance as a Key Area program.

State Associations will notify the third party associations, industry members, individuals, chapters
and school districts in writing or via email when the program has been approved and provide
them with a template for the certificate of completion.

Third party associations, industry members, individuals, chapters and school districts must
provide each program attendee with a certificate of completion (see Key Area Program
Certificate Template on Page 24 and Key Area Webinar Proof of Attendance Template on Page
25).

Individuals applying for a SNA certificate or moving levels are responsible for submitting the
certificate of completion.
6
LISTING OF COURSES BY KEY AREA
Use this list as a guide to determine the Key Area for your program. Programs must be a minimum of 2 hours to qualify for Key Area Hours
and can be broken down into modules (two 60 minute sessions = 2 Hours or three 60 minute sessions = 3 Hours)
KEY AREA 1 - OPERATIONS
Behavior Based Safety
Blood Borne Pathogens
Commodities
CPR
Culinary Techniques
Emergency Response
Equipment
Facility Design
Farm to School
Fire Safety
Food Allergy
Food and Beverage Control
Food Bio-Security
Food Buying Guide
Food Defense
Food Handler
Food Manager Certification
Food Preparation
Food Production
Food Safety
Food Science
Garnishing
HACCP
Hand Safety
Hazard
Hazardous Materials
Inventory
Knife Safety
Menu Planning
Microbiology
Offer vs. Serve
Operations
Orientation for Nutrition Employees (ONE)
Procurement
Purchasing
Quality Management
Quantity Food Preparation
Safe Food Handling
Safety
Sanitation
Serving It Safe
Serving Safe Food
ServSafe®
Special Diets
Standardized Recipes
Thermometers/Calibration
Weights and Measures
KEY AREA 2 – NUTRITION, NUTRITION EDUCATION AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
All Nutrition Courses
Child Nutrition
Community Nutrition
Dietary Guidelines
Family Nutrition
Feeding Children
Food Pyramid
Fundamentals I and II
Healthy Eating
Healthy School Meals
Human Nutrition
MyPyramid
Nutrients
Nutrition
Nutrition 101
Orientation for Nutrition Employees (ONE)
Personal Health
Smart Options
Step Up to the Plate
Vitamins and Nutrients
Whole Grains and Health
KEY AREA 3 - ADMINISTRATION
Absences From the Workplace
Accounting
Administration
Adult Education/Teaching
Adult Learning Principles
Auditing
Budget
Business
Cashiering
Computer
Computer Programming
Computer Science
Computer Software
Conflict Management
Cost Management
Database
Dealing With Difficult People
Delegating/Empowering
Disability in the Workplace
Discrimination in the Workplace
Diversity
Drug Free Workplace
Economics
Employee Concerns
Employee Retention
Ethics
Excel
Facilitation Skills
Finance
Foodservice Management
Grant Writing
Human Relations
Human Resource
Interpersonal Skills
Leadership
Legislature
Management
Negotiating/Resolution
Organizational Management
Payroll
Personal Computer
Personnel Management
Professional Development
Record Keeping
Regulations
Sexual Harassment
Stress Management
Supervising
Team Management
Time Management
Violence in the Workplace
Wellness
Windows
Word
KEY AREA 4 – MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS
Advertising
All Foreign Languages
Business Writing
Communications
Customer Service
English Composition
Focus on the Customer
Fuel Up To Play 60
Marketing
Media Management
Merchandising
Oral Communication
Promotion
Public Affairs
Public Relations
Public Speaking
Sign Language
Social Media
Speech
7
Key Area program applications can be denied by the State Associations for the
following reasons:

State Association did not receive enough background or content information to evaluate the
program.

The program was not related directly to the Keys to Excellence:
o
o
o
o
Key Area 1 – Operations
Key Area 2 – Nutrition, Nutrition Education and Physical Activity
Key Area 3 – Administration
Key Area 4 – Marketing and Communications

The program was not a minimum of 2 hours of instructional time.

The program does not follow within the perimeters of SNA’s mission, vision and goals.

If the application is denied, the third party association, industry member, individual, chapter or
school district is able to submit the missing documentation for further review by the State
Association.

Third party associations, industry members, individuals, chapters and school districts are not able
to bypass the State Association’s decision to deny approval by submitting their application to
SNA Headquarters.
8
CONTINUING EDUCATION UNITS (CEUs)
 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) can only be used for SNA certificate and SNS credentialing
renewal.
 CEUs cannot be used for “initial” SNA certificate.
 SNA utilizes a random audit system for its certificate and SNS credential renewals.
o
o
o
o
o
Renewals for the SNA Certificate in School Nutrition are annual.
SNS Credential renewals are every 3 years.
Individuals are responsible for maintaining their own CEU records.
Individuals will only have to submit CEU documentation to SNA if audited.
SNA will only maintain CEU information in its database for SNA sponsored activities
(i.e. NLC, ANC, SNIC, LAC and School Nutrition Magazine PDAs).
 Individuals can enroll in online CEU programs via SNA’s School Nutrition University at
www.snuniversity.org or via the National Food Service Management Institute at
http://www.nfsmi.org/Templates/TemplateDefault.aspx?qs=cElEPTIzOA==.
CEU APPROVAL GUIDELINES
State Associations should follow the following general guidelines for reviewing educational activities
for CEUs:

State Association developed activities such as State Association conferences, programs,
webinars, and online courses do not require CEU approval by SNA Headquarters (see State
Conference Education Session Tracking Form on pages 16-18).

State Associations are not required to maintain individual CEU records.

Third party associations, industry members and individuals offering CEUs within a state must
receive approval from SNA State Association. District and chapter meetings do not require approval
for CEUs by the State Association.

Third party associations, industry members and individuals offering CEUs in more than one state
or annual conferences must receive approval from SNA Headquarters.

All educational activities for CEUs must be approved before the activity takes place.

CEUs are earned for participating in job related activities such as conferences, workshops, online
courses, webinars, or in-service trainings that provide ongoing job-related professional
development.

Exhibits, tours, food shows and tradeshows qualify for 1 CEU only (see CEU Suggestion Table on
Page 11).

CEUs must be at least 1 hour of active instructional time (does not include registration time or
breaks)
9

CEUs can be broken down into modules and bundled (i.e. four 15 minute sessions or two 30
minute sessions)

Third party associations, industry members and individuals seeking CEUs for programs they
developed must complete and submit the CEU Program Approval Form (see Sample CEU
Program Approval Form on Pages 26-27).

SNA Approved Education Providers are organizations that are able to approve their own
developed programs and offer CEUs. Those providers are:
o School Nutrition Association (SNA)
o School Nutrition Foundation (SNF)
o SNA State Associations
o State Agencies – State Department of Education (DOE)
o US Department of Agriculture (USDA)
o National Food Service Management Institute (NFSMI)
o Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND)
o Dietary Managers Association (DMA)

All CEU approval requests submitted to the State Association by a third party association,
industry member or individual must include:
Printed Program
Program Description
Program Outline/Agenda (including timing, subject, registration, breaks,
mealtimes)
Speaker Qualifications/Degree/Current Position
Program Evaluation Form
Note: If the program is a Home Study Course, participants must complete an
evaluation (test) that documents that the course was completed and submit it
to the educational provider.

Third party associations, industry members and individuals should provide the State Associations
with program materials that will be helpful in evaluating the program such as manuals,
presentations, videos, scripts, course syllabus, etc.

State Associations will review the request for acceptance as a CEU program.

State Associations will notify the third party association, industry member and individual in
writing or via email that the program has been approved and provide them with the CEU
certificate of completion.

Third party associations, industry members and individuals must provide each program attendee
with a CEU certificate of completion (see CEU Certificate Template on Page 30 and CEU Webinar
Proof of Attendance Template on Page 31).

Individuals who have earned a SNA certificate or are SNS credentialed will be randomly audited
by SNA and are responsible for submitting documentation of CEUs earned.

Note that State Associations, third party associations, industry members and individuals DO NOT
have to submit to SNA attendance rosters for programs offered. If the State Association, third
party association, industry member or individual wishes to maintain record of rosters for
program attendees they can use the Attendance Roster Template as a reference (see Sample
Attendance Roster on Page 28-29).
10
CEU SUGGESTION TABLE
CEU SUGGESTIONS
CEUs
Participate in SNA State Association-approved
educational programs
Attend workshops and seminars
Attend state and national conferences
Complete home study courses
Complete online courses on SNA’s School
Nutrition University at www.snuniversity.org
Complete Professional Development Articles
(PDAs) in School Nutrition magazine or state PDA’s
– www.schoolnutrition.org/pda
1 CEU for each hour of instructional time
Participate in study group meetings to review and
discuss at least two foodservice/managementrelated articles
Participate in Personal Wellness programs
1 CEU - Limited to 2 per year
Participate in Webinars/Satellite Teleconferences
Teach a course – first time only
Education provider determines CEU amount
Publish an article in a national journal/magazine
Attend Exhibits/Tours/Food Shows
Teach Classroom Nutrition Lesson
Participate in Back to School Workshops
Participate in Point of Sale Training
Attend Blood Borne Pathogens Workshops
Participate in Civil Rights or Diversity Training
Participate in Meal Pattern/Production Training
Participate in Offer vs. Serve Training
Hold State Leadership Position
Hold Chapter Leadership Position
Hold National Leadership Position
Plan or participate in Special Event Planning &
Implementation Workshops
Participate in School Community Open House
Participate in Technology Skill Development
Workshops
1 CEU for each hour of instructional time
1 CEU for each hour of instructional time
Education provider determines CEU amount
Education provider determines CEU amount
1 CEU - Passing grade of 80%. Limited to 3
passing per year for certified professionals.
SNS professionals have no limit on the
number of CEUs earned for passing PDAs
submitted. Articles must be published within
current renewal period.
1 CEU - Limited to 1 per year (weight loss
programs should be science based programs)
2 CEUs per hour taught. First time for each
course
2 CEUs
1 CEU per year
1 CEU
1 CEU for each hour of instructional time
1 CEU for each hour of instructional time
1 CEU for each hour of instructional time
1 CEU for each hour of instructional time
1 CEU for each hour of instructional time
1 CEU for each hour of instructional time
1 CEU per year of service
1 CEU per year of service
1 CEU per year of service
1 CEU per event
1 CEU per event
1 CEU for each hour of instructional time
11
CEU applications submitted by third party associations can be denied by the State
Associations for the following reasons:

State Association did not receive enough background or content information to evaluate the
program.

The program was not a minimum of 1 hour of instructional time.

The program does not follow within the perimeters of SNA’s mission, vision and goals.

If the application is denied, the third party association, industry member or individual is able to
submit the missing documentation for further review by the State Association.

Third party associations, industry members and individuals are not able to bypass the state’s
decision by submitting their application to SNA Headquarters.
12
INDIVIDUAL RESPONSIBILITIES FOR MAINTAINING
SNA CERTIFICATE or SNS CREDENTIAL CEUs

A Level Certificate is valid for one year. Individuals must complete the required number
of CEUs during their annual certificate period: Level 1 = 6 CEUs, Level 2 = 12 CEUs and
Level 3 = 18 CEUs.

SNS Credentialing is valid for three years. Individuals must complete 45 CEUs during their
three year SNS Credentialing period.

Three months prior to expiring, SNA will send via mail a letter and renewal form.
Individuals are responsible for renewing their level certificate, Trainer Certificate or SNS
Credential on time to avoid cancellation and having to re-apply.

Those who have earned a SNA Certificate or are SNS Credentialed professionals are responsible
for maintaining and keeping records of CEUs earned.

SNA will check proof of CEUs via a random audit. Only those chosen for the audit will be
required to send in documentation of CEUs earned. If selected for an audit, notification to send
CEU documentation to SNA will be included in the renewal notice.

Those who have earned a SNA Certificate must submit to SNA the annual renewal fee with the
renewal form. The renewal fees are dependent upon your certificate level. SNS professionals
pay an annual maintenance fee and renew every 3 years.

SNA strongly urges individuals to submit their renewal forms at least 4-6 weeks prior to
expiring.

After SNA reviews and approves the certificate or SNS renewal, a letter will be mailed.

To prove an active SNA certificate to a school district, SNA members can easily access and print
out a certificate by login into their MySNA account at www.schoolnutrition.org.

If renewal forms are incomplete, SNA will send a letter explaining what is required to renew.

In order to pay the member rate for the renewal fee, individuals must be active SNA members.
Those with an inactive membership must pay the non-member rate for the SNA certificate or SNS
credential.

Individuals are able to renew their Level Certificate, Trainer Certificate and SNS online at
www.schoolnutrition.org/certrenew

Individuals can enroll in online CEU programs via SNA’s School Nutrition University at
www.snuniversity.org or via the National Food Service Management Institute at
http://www.nfsmi.org/Templates/TemplateDefault.aspx?qs=cElEPTIzOA==.
13
INDIVIDUAL’S GENERAL CEU GUIDELINES

Individuals are responsible for maintaining documentation of all CEUs earned.

Core Requirements and Key Area Hours can be used for CEUs – CEUs cannot be used for Core
Requirements or Key Area Hours for an initial SNA certificate.

CEUs are for SNA Certificate or SNS Credential Renewal only.

CEUs must be completed or earned within the SNA certificate or SNS Credential period.

CEUs should reflect job-related professional development experiences.

CEUs for SNA-sponsored events such as ANC, NLC, LAC, SNIC, and School Nutrition magazine
PDAs will be maintained in the SNA database and can be downloaded from MySNA.

All CEUs must be a minimum of one hour in length.

CEUs are required during the annual certificate period and 3 year SNS period as indicated below:
Program
CEUs
Member Annual Fee
Non-Member Annual Fee
LEVEL 1
LEVEL 2
LEVEL 3
SNS
6 CEUs (annually)
12 CEUs (annually)
18 CEUs (annually)
45 CEUs (3 years)
$ 10.00
$ 11.00
$ 13.00
$ 65.00
$ 55.00
$ 65.00
$ 165.00
$ 160.00
CEU DOCUMENTATION FOR AUDITS
SNA will notify individuals who are selected for an audit of the CEUs they need to submit. These are
the types of CEU documentation accepted by SNA:









Certificates of Completion
Copies of Rosters
College/University Transcripts
Program Agendas
Program Books/Brochures
Registration Confirmation Letters
Conference Badges
Payment Receipts
SNA website My Account (MySNA) Transcript
(For additional information, please review the FAQ’s on SNA’s Certificate and SNS Credentialing
beginning on page 32.)
14
FORMS
15
STATE ASSOCIATION NAME
CONFERENCE TITLE
SNA STATE
ASSOCIATION LOGO
HERE
Education Session Tracking Form
For Key Area Hours Completed
Program Date, Year
City, State
*DIRECTIONS: The un-shaded areas of this form are to be fully and accurately completed by the attendee. Attendees are responsible for
keeping this original form for their records.
Do NOT leave completed forms with the Presenter of the education sessions you attend.
EDUCATION/ROUNDTABLE SESSIONS: This tracking form serves as documentation of Key Area Hours for SNA Level 2 and Level 3 Certificate
Programs and also for moving up levels. Submit to SNA this completed form, the New Certificate Program Application Form, payment, and any
additional Key Area Hour documentation you need to apply. Note that the Key Area Hours can be bundled to earn the credits.
CEUs: The number of preapproved CEUs for Conference Name is Number of CEUs. You are only required to submit CEU documentation if you
receive a notice of audit from SNA. CEUs are used for certificate program or SNS credential renewal ONLY!
First Name:
SNA ID Number:
Preferred Address:
Last Name:
School District/Company Name:
 Home  Work
Email:
Street Address:
City:
State:
Zip:
First Name:
Last Name:
SNA ID:
176
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First Name:
Last Name:
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18
CORE COURSE APPROVAL GUIDELINES
Introduction
The School Nutrition Association (SNA) offers Core Course approval guidelines for school nutrition education
courses. These approved Core Courses are used by individuals pursuing an initial SNA Certificate, moving
levels or as CEUs for SNA’s certificate and SNS credential renewal.
The Core Course Approval Form, payment, and required attachments must be submitted to SNA for review 6-8
weeks prior to the course date. Once the course is approved, SNA will send notification via email which will
include a certificate template. Each participant must receive documentation of completion for the approved
Core Course.
Core Courses
Core Courses are workshops, seminars or online courses that meet objectives and goals which help to
achieve best practices. Core Courses:
 Must be at least 8 hours of instructional time (does not include registration time or breaks)
 Can be broken down into modules and bundled (i.e. two 4 hour sessions = 8 hours, or four 2 hour
sessions = 8 hours).

Must fall under one of the following categories:
o Nutrition Education
o Food Safety & Sanitation
Application Fees - Completed Core Course Approval Forms received less than 6 weeks prior to the program will
need to include a $50 rush fee along with the correct application fee listed below.
*SNA
Program
Minutes
480
Hours
Awarded
8
*SNA Approved
Education Providers
$0
Individuals, School
Districts or Associations
$75
Industry
Members
$100
481 – 900
8.1 – 15
$0
$100
$120
901 – 1200
15.1 – 20
$0
$105
$125
1201 – 1500
20.1 – 25
$0
$125
$145
1501 – 1800
25.1 – 30
$0
$145
$165
1801 or +
30.1 or +
$0
$165
$185
Approved Education Providers: School Nutrition Foundation (SNF), SNA State Affiliates, State Agencies/State Department of Education (DOE),
US Department of Agriculture (USDA), National Food Service Management Institute (NFMSI), Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND), Dietary
Managers Association (DMA).
Submitting Application (If paying by credit card please fax the completed form and attachments.)
ALL Core Course requests must be approved by SNA Headquarters. The Core Course Approval Form
should be submitted for approval prior to offering the course.
Mail to:
School Nutrition Association
Attn: Education
120 Waterfront Street, Suite 300
National Harbor, MD 20745
Fax to:
(301) 686-3115
Attn: Education
Email: education@schoolnutrition.org
(Application on the following page)
199
CORE COURSE APPROVAL FORM
Due 6-8 weeks prior to program date. Applications submitted less than 6 weeks prior to
program date must include a rush fee of $50 along with the application fee.
(Please Print or Type)
PART I - CONTACT DETAILS
For SNA Use Only
Received:
Processed:
Hours approved:
Hours requested:
Approved by:
Program Provider:
Address:
City, State & Zip:
Contact Person:
Phone:
Fax:
Email:
Signature:
PART II – CORE COURSE DETAILS
Core Course Title:
Core Course Development Date:
State:
 Nutrition Education Course
Course Type:
Hours Requested:
 Food Safety & Sanitation Course
(minimum 8 hours of instructional time - do not include registration or breaks)
Program Type:  Workshop
 Conference  Webinar
 Online  College Course
*Home Study - Participant must complete a test documenting course completion. The
test must be submitted to the educational provider for grading.
PART III - REQUIRED ATTACHMENTS (All attachments must be submitted along with this completed form)
 Content Summary
 Learning Objectives
 Course Evaluation Form
 Speaker Bio (Qualifications/Degree/Title)
 Course Curriculum (Syllabus, manuals, videos)
 Course Outline (Sessions & times, registration, breaks, meals)
PART VI - PAYMENT (If paying by credit card, please fax the completed Core Course Approval Form &attachments)
 Check (Make payable to SNA)  Visa
 MasterCard
 AMEX
Name on Credit Card:
Expiration Date:
Card Number:
Signature:
Amount Enclosed:
Mail to:
 Discover
$
School Nutrition Association
Attn: Education
120 Waterfront Street, Suite 300
National Harbor, MD 20745
Fax to:
(301) 686-3115
Attn: Education
Email: education@schoolnutrition.org
20
KEY AREA APPROVAL GUIDELINES
Introduction
The School Nutrition Association (SNA) offers Key Area approval guidelines for school nutrition education
programs. These education programs may then be used by individuals pursuing a SNA Certificate, moving
levels or as CEUs for a SNA certificate and SNS credential renewal.
The Key Area Approval Form, payment, and required attachments must be submitted to SNA for review 6-8
weeks prior to the program date. Once the program is approved, SNA will send notification via email which
will include a certificate template. Each participant must receive documentation of completion for the
approved Key Area Program.
Key Area Hours
Key Area Hours are earned for participating in programs such as workshops, conferences, online courses,
webinars, or home study courses that are directly related to the Key’s to Excellence. Key Area Programs:
 Must be at least 2 hours of instructional time (does not include registration time or breaks)
 Can be broken down into modules and bundled (i.e. two 60 minute sessions = 2 hours, or three 60
minute sessions = 3 hours).
 Must fall under one of the following (review the enclosed listing of programs by Key Area):
Key Area 1 – Operations
Key Area 3 – Administration
Key Area 2 – Nutrition, Nutrition Education and Physical Activity
Key Area 4 – Marketing and Communications
Application Fees - Completed Key Area Approval Forms received less than 6 weeks prior to the program will need
to include a $50 rush fee along with the correct application fee listed below.
*SNA
Program
Minutes
120 – 300
Hours
Awarded
2–5
*SNA Approved
Education Providers
$0
Individuals, School
Districts or Associations
$50
Industry
Members
$70
306 – 600
5.1 – 10
$0
$75
$100
606 – 900
10.1 – 15
$0
$100
$120
906 – 1200
15.1 – 20
$0
$105
$125
1206 – 1500
20.1 – 25
$0
$125
$145
1506 – 1800
25.1 – 30
$0
$145
$165
1806 or +
30.1 or +
$0
$165
$185
Approved Education Providers: School Nutrition Foundation (SNF), SNA State Affiliates, State Agencies/State Department of Education (DOE),
US Department of Agriculture (USDA), National Food Service Management Institute (NFMSI), Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND), Dietary
Managers Association (DMA).
Submitting Application (If paying by credit card please fax the completed form and attachments.)
If this is a national conference, national program or being held in more than one state, please mail or fax the
completed Key Area Approval Form, application fee, and required attachments to SNA Headquarters:
Mail to:
School Nutrition Association
Attn: Education
120 Waterfront Street, Suite 300
National Harbor, MD 20745
Fax to:
(301) 686-3115
Attn: Education
Email to: education@schoolnutrition.org
If this program is being held in only one state, you must complete a different application. Please contact
SNA’s Education staff at education@schoolnutrition.org or call (800) 877-8822 for the correct form to
complete.
21
LISTING OF COURSES BY KEY AREA
Use this list as a guide to determine the Key Area for your program. Programs must be a minimum of 2 hours to qualify and can be broken
down into modules/bundled (i.e. two 60 minute sessions = 2 Key Area Hours or three 60 minute sessions = 3 Key Area Hours)
KEY AREA 1 - OPERATIONS
Behavior Based Safety
Blood Borne Pathogens
Commodities
CPR
Culinary Techniques
Emergency Response
Equipment
Facility Design
Farm to School
Fire Safety
Food Allergy
Food and Beverage Control
Food Bio-Security
Food Buying Guide
Food Defense
Food Handler
Food Manager Certification
Food Preparation
Food Production
Food Safety
Food Science
Garnishing
HACCP
Hand Safety
Hazard
Hazardous Materials
Inventory
Knife Safety
Menu Planning
Microbiology
Offer vs. Serve
Operations
Orientation for Nutrition Employees (ONE)
Procurement
Purchasing
Quality Management
Quantity Food Preparation
Safe Food Handling
Safety
Sanitation
Serving It Safe
Serving Safe Food
ServSafe®
Special Diets
Standardized Recipes
Thermometers/Calibration
Weights and Measures
KEY AREA 2 – NUTRITION, NUTRITION EDUCATION, PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
All Nutrition Courses
Child Nutrition
Community Nutrition
Dietary Guidelines
Family Nutrition
Feeding Children
Food Pyramid
Fundamentals I and II
Healthy Eating
Healthy School Meals
Human Nutrition
MyPyramid
Nutrients
Nutrition
Nutrition 101
Orientation for Nutrition Employees (ONE)
Personal Health
Smart Options
Step Up to the Plate
Vitamins and Nutrients
Whole Grains and Health
KEY AREA 3 - ADMINISTRATION
Absences From the Workplace
Accounting
Administration
Adult Education/Teaching
Adult Learning Principles
Auditing
Budget
Business
Cashiering
Computer
Computer Programming
Computer Science
Computer Software
Conflict Management
Cost Management
Database
Dealing With Difficult People
Delegating/Empowering
Disability in the Workplace
Discrimination in the Workplace
Diversity
Drug Free Workplace
Economics
Employee Concerns
Employee Retention
Ethics
Excel
Facilitation Skills
Finance
Foodservice Management
Grant Writing
Human Relations
Human Resource
Interpersonal Skills
Leadership
Legislature
Management
Negotiating/Resolution
Organizational Management
Payroll
Personal Computer
Personnel Management
Professional Development
Record Keeping
Regulations
Sexual Harassment
Stress Management
Supervising
Team Management
Time Management
Violence in the Workplace
Wellness
Windows
Word
KEY AREA 4 – MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS
Advertising
All Foreign Languages
Business Writing
Communications
Customer Service
English Composition
Focus on the Customer
Fuel Up To Play 60
Marketing
Media Management
Merchandising
Oral Communication
Promotion
Public Affairs
Public Relations
Public Speaking
Sign Language
Social Media
Speech
(Application on the following page)
22
KEY AREA APPROVAL FORM
Due 6-8 weeks prior to program date. Applications submitted less than 6 weeks prior to
program date must include a rush fee of $50 along with the application fee.
(Please Print or Type)
PART I - CONTACT DETAILS
For SNA Use Only
Received:
Processed:
Hours approved:
Hours requested:
Approved by:
Program Provider:
Address:
City, State & Zip:
Contact Person:
Phone:
Fax:
Email:
Signature:
PART II - PROGRAM DETAILS
Program Title:
Program Dates:
Locations (City, State):
Hours Requested:
(minimum 2 hours of instructional
time - do not include registration time or breaks)
 Workshop
Program Type:
 Conference
Key Area:
 Webinar
 Online
*Home Study - Participant must complete a test documenting course completion. The
test must be submitted to the educational provider for grading.
PART III - REQUIRED ATTACHMENTS (All attachments must be submitted with the Key Area Approval Form)
 Program Description
 Learning Objectives
 *If Home Study – copy of test
 Program Evaluation Form
 Copy of Presentation (Handouts, PowerPoint)
 Program Agenda (Sessions & times, registration, breaks, meals)
 Speaker Bio (Qualifications/Degree/Current Position)
PART VI - PAYMENT (If paying by credit card, please fax the completed Key Area Approval Form and attachments)
 Check (Make payable to SNA)  Visa
 MasterCard
 AMEX
Name on Credit Card:
Expiration Date:
Card Number:
Signature:
Amount Enclosed:
Mail to:
 Discover
$
School Nutrition Association
Attn: Education
120 Waterfront Street, Suite 300
National Harbor, MD 20745
Fax to:
(301) 686-3115
Attn: Education
Email to: education@schoolnutrition.org
23
SNA STATE
ASSOCIATION
LOGO
KEY AREA HOURS
PROGRAM
PROVIDER LOGO
CERTIFICATE OF
COMPLETION
This Certifies that
NAME
SNA Member #
has completed the program entitled:
PROGRAM NAME
Number of Hours Earned:
Key Area:
Date of Completion & Location
Instructor’s Signature
This certificate serves as official documentation of completion of this Key Area program.
Counts as ____ Hours in Key Area _______ for Initial SNA Certificate or Moving Levels.
Counts as ____ CEUs for SNA Certificate or SNS Credential Renewal.
24
SNA STATE
ASSOCIATION LOGO
PROGRAM
PROVIDER LOGO
KEY AREA WEBINAR
PROOF OF ATTENDANCE
This document confirms your participation and serves
as documentation that you earned ____ Key Area
Hours for viewing the following webinar:
PROGRAM NAME
Live Webinar aired on _______ from ___ to __
Date:
_________________________________
(Write in the date you viewed this webinar)
Hours:
_________________________________
Key Area: _________________________________
This certificate serves as official documentation of completion of this webinar.
Counts as ____ Hours in Key Area _______ for SNA Initial Certificate or Moving Levels.
Counts as ____ CEUs for SNA Certificate or SNS Credential Renewal.
25
CEU APPROVAL GUIDELINES
Introduction
The School Nutrition Association (SNA) offers Continuing Education Unit (CEU) approval guidelines for school
nutrition education programs. These education programs may then be used by individuals who have earned a
SNA Certificate and SNS Credentialed professionals for certificate and credential renewal.
The CEU Approval Form, payment, and required attachments must be submitted to SNA for review 6-8 weeks
prior to offering the program. Once the program is approved, SNA will send notification via email which will
include a certificate template. Each participant must receive documentation of completion for the approved
CEU Program.
Continuing Education Units
Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are earned for participating in job related activities such as conferences,
workshops, online courses, webinars, or in-service trainings that provide ongoing professional development.
Note that exhibits, tours, food shows and tradeshows qualify for 1 CEU only.
CEUs:
 Must be at least 1 hour of instructional time (does not include registration time or breaks)
 Can be broken down into modules and bundled (i.e. four 15 minute sessions or two 30 minute
sessions)
Application Fees - Completed CEU Approval Forms received less than 6 weeks prior to the program will
need to include a $50 rush fee along with the correct application fee listed below.
Program
Minutes
60 – 300
Hours
Awarded
1–5
*SNA Approved
Education Providers
$0
Individuals, School
Districts or Associations
$50
Industry
Members
$70
306 – 600
5.1 – 10
$0
$75
$100
606 – 900
10.1 – 15
$0
$100
$120
906 – 1200
15.1 – 20
$0
$105
$125
1206 – 1500
20.1 – 25
$0
$125
$145
1506 – 1800
25.1 – 30
$0
$145
$165
1806 or +
30.1 or +
$0
$165
$185
*SNA Approved Education Providers: School Nutrition Foundation (SNF), SNA State Affiliates, State Agencies/State
Department of Education (DOE), US Department of Agriculture (USDA), National Food Service Management Institute (NFMSI),
Academy of Nutrition Dietetics (AND), Dietary Managers Association (DMA).
Submitting Application (If paying by credit card please fax the completed form and attachments.)
If this is a national conference, national program or being held in more than one state, please mail or fax the
completed CEU Approval Form, application fee, and required attachments to SNA Headquarters:
Mail to:
School Nutrition Association
Attn: Education
120 Waterfront Street, Suite 300
National Harbor, MD 20745
Fax to:
(301) 686-3115
Attn: Education
Email: education@schoolnutrition.org
If this program is being held in only one state, you must complete a different application. Please contact SNA
at education@schoolnutrition.org or call (800) 877-8822 for the correct form to complete.
(Application on the following page)
26
CEU APPROVAL FORM
Due 6-8 weeks prior to program date. Applications submitted less than 6 weeks prior to
program date must include a rush fee of $50 along with the application fee.
(Please Print or Type)
PART I - CONTACT DETAILS
For SNA Use Only
Received:
Processed:
Hours approved:
Hours requested:
Approved by:
Program Provider:
Address:
City, State & Zip:
Contact Person:
Phone:
Fax:
Email:
Signature:
PART II - PROGRAM DETAILS
Program Title:
Program Dates:
Locations (City, State):
CEUs Requested:
(minimum 1 hour of instructional time - do not include registration time or breaks)
 Workshop
Program Type:
 Conference
 Webinar
 Online
*Home Study - Participant must complete a test documenting course completion. The
test must be submitted to the educational provider for grading.
PART III - REQUIRED ATTACHMENTS (All attachments must be submitted along with the CEU Approval Form)
 Program Description
 Learning Objectives
 *If Home Study – copy of test
 Program Evaluation Form
 Copy of Presentation (Handouts, PowerPoint)
 Program Agenda (Sessions & times, registration, breaks, meals)
 Speaker Bio (Qualifications/Degree/Current Position)
PART VI - PAYMENT (If paying by credit card, please fax the completed application and attachments)
 Check (Make payable to SNA)  Visa
 MasterCard
 AMEX
Name on Credit Card:
Expiration Date:
Card Number:
Signature:
Amount Enclosed:
Mail to:
 Discover
$
School Nutrition Association
Attn: Education
120 Waterfront Street, Suite 300
National Harbor, MD 20745
Fax to:
(301) 686-3115
Attn: Education
Email: education@schoolnutrition.org
27
SAMPLE
ATTENDANCE ROSTER
SNA no longer processes rosters! You DO NOT have to submit this roster to SNA! Those
with a SNA certificate or SNS credentialed are responsible for keeping track of their own
CEU records. Participants of this program should receive a certificate of completion.
Program Title:
Date:
Program Provider:
Location of Program:
Number of Hours:
Instructor’s Signature:
Name
State
SNA Identification
Number (Required)
Hours
Completed
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
28
Name
State
SNA Identification
Number (Required)
Hours
Completed
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
29
SNA STATE
ASSOCIATION
LOGO
CONTINUING EDUCATION
UNIT - CEU
PROGRAM
PROVIDER LOGO
CERTIFICATE OF
COMPLETION
This Certifies that
NAME
SNA Member #
has completed the program entitled:
PROGRAM NAME
Number of CEUs Earned:
Date of Completion & Location
Instructor’s Signature
This certificate serves as official documentation of completion of this CEU program.
Counts as ____ CEUs for SNA Certificate or SNS Credential Renewal.
30
SNA STATE
ASSOCIATION LOGO
PROGRAM
PROVIDER LOGO
CEU WEBINAR
PROOF OF ATTENDANCE
This document confirms your participation and serves
as documentation that you earned ____ CEUs in Key
Area __________ for viewing the following webinar:
PROGRAM NAME
Live Webinar aired on _______ from ___ to __
Date Viewed:
(Write in the date you viewed this webinar)
Duration:
Minutes
Approved For:
CEUs
This certificate serves as official documentation of completion of this CEU program.
Counts as ____ CEUs for SNA Certificate or SNS Credential Renewal.
31
SNA Certificate and SNS Credentialing
Program FAQ’s
SNA’s Certificate in School Nutrition Program Update
1. What are the new Certificate Program fees?
A: As of August 1, 2014, the following program fees have changed (note that the initial application fee
for certificate levels remains the same):
Certificate Initial Fees
Member
Non-Member
Trainer
$70.00
$165
Certificate Renewal Fees
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Trainer
Member
$10.00
$11.00
$13.00
$60.00
Non-Member
$55
$65
$165
$155
Certificate Reinstatement
Member Fees
Initial
Plus Annual
Level 1 Member
Level 2 Member
Level 3 Member
$16.00
$20.00
$30.00
$10.00
$11.00
$13.00
Certificate Reinstatement
Non-Member Fees
Initial
Plus Annual
Level 1 Non-Member
Level 2 Non-Member
Level 3 Non-Member
$16.00
$20.00
$30.00
$55
$65
$165
Total
Reinstatement
Fee
$26.00
$31.00
$43.00
Total
Reinstatement
Fee
$71.00
$85.00
$195.00
2. Why did SNA change the name of the certification program to the certificate program?
A: SNA’s current program is a certificate of completion program. The Governing Council (who oversees
the program policies and procedures) approved the change to ensure our program is in line with
current program standards. SNA’s Certificate in School Nutrition will be aligned to the requirements
set forth by USDA once the final rule on professional standards is released.
3. Is the SNA certificate program different from the certification program?
A: Yes. A certification program requires a thorough exam based on your job skills and knowledge. For
example, the SNA credentialing program requires an exam. A certificate program only requires a
certificate of completion once you attend a workshop or course.
4. Is the certificate program not as good as the certification program?
A: Both programs are highly valued in the school nutrition profession! A certification program
requires individuals to pass an exam based on their knowledge and skills required to complete their
job. Once the individual passes the exam, they earn a designation or credential after their name. The
32
certificate program is a little different. It is a training program on a topic for which participants receive
a certificate after attendance and/or completion of the course.
5. What does this change mean for my CEUs and record?
A: There is no change for the CEU requirements to renew your SNA certificate. You will still need to
maintain the CEUs earned during your annual period. You are only required to submit these if you are
audited by SNA.
6. Can I still say I am SNA certified? Can I still wear my SNA Certified pin?
A: It’s best to no longer use the term certified. You can state that you’ve “earned the SNA Certificate
in School Nutrition” or that you have SNA’s certificate in school nutrition. Yes. Please continue to wear
your pin! SNA will work on providing new pins in the near future.
7. If my district offers me an incentive for being SNA certified, does this still work with the
certificate program?
A: Yes! Your district may continue to provide incentives for earning a SNA certificate. Please contact
your supervisor directly to discuss. Note that SNA is not involved or responsible for incentives provided
by your district.
Applying for SNA’s Certificate Program
8. Do I need to have a High School Diploma/GED to apply for Level 1?
A: No, as of June 2014 the High School Diploma/GED requirement has been removed for Level 1. You
will however, need to submit a copy of your High School Diploma/GED if applying for Levels 2 or 3.
9. Where is the NEW Certificate Program Guide available?
A: The Guide is available for download at www.schoolnutrition.org/certificate then click on Earning a
SNA Certificate.
Hardcopies of the Guide are also available. Please contact SNA at
certsns@schoolnutrition.org.
10. Do I have to start at Level 1?
A: No. You do not have to start at Level 1. Review the requirements for each Level described in the
Certificate Program Guide and determine if you have met the requirements for that Level.
11. Is there an initial application fee for the certificate program?
A: Yes. Please note that the fee is non-refundable. The initial application fee covers SNA’s processing
cost. The initial application fees are:
Initial Certificate
Application Fee
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Member
$ 16
$ 20
$ 30
NonMember
$ 61
$ 73
$ 180
12. Are associate members eligible to pay the member rate for the certificate?
A: Yes. All current members of SNA are eligible to pay the member rate.
33
13. What is the waiting period before I will receive a response for my status?
A: It takes approximately 4 to 6 weeks for your application to be processed. If approved, you will
receive a Verification Letter via mail with instructions on renewing. Members who are approved will
be able to visit our website at www.schoolnutrition.org, login to My Account click on MySNA and
download their certificate at any time. SNA no longer mails certificate cards. The expiration date will
appear on your membership card which will be mailed to you at the time you renew your SNA
membership.
If you are not approved, you will receive notice stating the reason why you did not earn the certificate.
You must submit the requested documents within 30 calendar days of receipt of notice. If your
documents are not received within 30 calendar days, you will have to re-submit the entire application,
documentation, and pay the initial application fee again. Note that this fee is non-refundable.
14. Do states offer their own SNA-approved Nutrition Education and Food Safety & Sanitation Core
Courses?
A: Yes. Some SNA State Associates offer their own SNA-approved Core Courses. To view a listing of
these, please visit www.schoolnutrition.org/certificate and click on SNA Approved Nutrition Education
& Sanitation and Safety State Courses.
15. I’m supposed to get a bonus or pay increase when I have achieved a certain level. How does that
work and when will I get that?
A: SNA is not responsible for any monetary awards that you might receive related to your certificate
level. These are unique agreements between you and your employer. Check with your supervisor or
human resources department about documentation requirements and timelines.
Certificate Program Renewal
16. What do I need to do to maintain my annual certificate?
A: You need to earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs) to renew. CEUs must be earned during your 12
month certificate period. You must also pay the annual renewal fee. You are responsible for
maintaining records of CEUs earned each year. It is your responsibility to renew on time to avoid your
certificate being lapsed. NOTE: You are only required to submit CEU documentation to SNA if you
receive an audit notice at the time you receive your renewal notice.
Certificate Levels
CEUs
Level 1
6 CEUs
Level 2
12 CEUs
Level 3
18 CEUs
17. Will renewal notices be sent out?
A: Yes. Three months before your certificate program expiration date, SNA will send you (via mail) a
letter and renewal form. Simply submit the renewal form with payment to SNA at least 4-6 weeks
prior to expiring. NOTE: If SNA has your email address in its database, you will also receive an email
notification a few weeks prior to expiring. You are also able to pay your renewal fee online. To renew,
visit www.schoolnutrition.org/certrenew.
18. How will I know if I am picked for audit?
A: SNA will use an automated random selection process for audits. SNA will have a percentage of
individuals audited for renewal each month. If you are selected for an audit, notification to send CEU
documentation to SNA will be included in your annual renewal notice.
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19. If I’m audited, what kind of CEU documentation do I need to submit to SNA?
A: SNA will accept certificates of completion, copies of rosters, college/university transcripts, program
agendas, program books/brochures, registration confirmation letters, badges, transcript via your SNA
website My Account or payment receipts. The documentation must include your SNA ID number,
date, and amount of credits you earned.
20. If I’ve just renewed, do I have to renew again next year?
A: Yes. Your SNA certificate is valid for 12 months. You will have to pay the renewal fee every year.
21. Is my certificate program renewal date the same as my membership renewal date?
A: No. Your certificate program renewal date and membership renewal dates are different.
22. What happens if I don’t renew my SNA certificate?
A: If you fail to renew on time, you will have 90 days after your expiration date to reinstate. You will
have to pay a reinstatement fee along with the annual fee due from the previous year. You will also
have to submit documentation of CEUs earned for that year. SNA will mail you a reinstatement notice
after your expiration date with instructions on how to reinstate. These fees are non-refundable.
Ways to Earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs)
23. Does work experience count for CEU or Core Requirements?
A: No. Work experience is not part of SNA’s certificate program.
24. Do Back-to-School meetings count for CEUs?
A: Yes. Attending Back-to-School workshops counts for CEUs. Each hour of instructional time equals 1
CEU. Please review page 9 of the Certificate Program Guide for ways to earn CEUs.
25. How many of the “To Your Credit” articles in School Nutrition magazine or Professional Development
Articles (PDAs) can I use from the magazine to renew?
A: You can use a maximum of three (3) passing “To Your Credit” or PDA articles per year to renew.
The passing grade is 80%. Each article is worth 1 CEU. Articles must be published and submitted
within your current renewal period. PDA’s can be completed online at www.schoolnutrition.org/PDA.
26. Is SNA going to keep track of all my CEUs?
A: No. SNA will only maintain CEU records for SNA sponsored activities such as ANC, NLC, LAC, CNIC,
and School Nutrition magazine PDAs. You are responsible for maintaining CEU records.
27. If I take a college course on writing children’s books, can it count for CEUs?
A: No. CEUs must be job-related professional growth experiences that relate to your job in school
nutrition.
28. Can I take the same course twice within my annual certificate program period?
A: No. Courses cannot be used twice for CEUs within the same annual period.
29. Can I carry CEUs over to my next certificate program period?
A: No. When your SNA certificate is renewed, you start fresh with no CEUs. All CEUs must be earned
within the annual period.
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30. Does SNA offer online courses?
A: Yes. SNA offers online courses at http://www.snuniversity.org/.
31. Do the state associations still send in their rosters?
A: State associations no longer have to submit rosters to SNA. Those who have earned a SNA
certificate are responsible for keeping track of their own CEU records.
32. Do district meetings have to be approved for CEUs by the SNA State Association?
A: No. Districts that have developed their own programs/meetings do not require approval for CEUs
by the State Association. Each hour of instruction equals 1 CEU. The agenda can be used as CEU
documentation for audit.
Key Area Hours
33. Do Key Area programs have to be approved by the SNA State Association?
A: SNA State Associations are able to approve in-state Key Area programs. Third party associations,
individuals and districts offering Key Area programs within a state must receive approval from the
State Association. Those offering Key Area programs in more than one state must receive approval
from SNA Headquarters. For example, if a local distributor or food broker wants to offer a Key Area
Hour program in your state they must request approval from the state association. If on the other
hand a school district wants to offer a Key Area program in more than one state or nationwide, they
will have to request approval from SNA headquarters.
34. Is the National Restaurant Association an approved provider?
A: No. The National Restaurant Association is not an approved provider, but SNA does accept NRA’s
ServSafe® as a Core Course.
Changing Levels
35. I have Level 1 and I’m working to move up to Level 2. Do I need to take Core Courses a second time?
A: No. You only have to meet the difference in the Key Area Hour requirements between your current
level and the level that you are applying for. For example: Level 2 (86 hours) – Level 1 (16 hours)
current level = 70 Key Area Hours difference. Note that there is a requirement on the number of hours
you earn in each Key Area. Please review the Certificate Program Guide for details.
36. Do I have to wait for my renewal before applying to move to another Level?
A: No. You can apply to move to a higher level whenever you meet the eligibility requirements for that
new level. You must submit the certificate program application with the documentation verifying the
eligibility requirements for the higher level, along with the initial application fee for the new level.
Once you change Levels, you will have a new certificate program expiration date.
Trainer Certificate
37. Where do I find information on the Trainer Certificate Program?
A: For more information, visit our website at www.schoolnutrition.org/certificate.
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SNS CREDENTIALING QUESTIONS
38. Do I need college credits to sit for the SNS Exam?
A: Yes. To view the full SNS program requirements and to see if you qualify to sit for the exam,
download the SNS Credentialing Exam Handbook at www.schoolnutrition.org/sns.
39. How many questions are on the SNS Credentialing Exam?
A: The exam is comprised of 200 multiple choice questions and candidates have four hours to
complete it. The exam is based on 9 Content/Knowledge Areas.
40. I’m taking the SNS Exam. What will I need to study?
A: Individuals taking the SNS Exam need to use the SNS Credentialing Exam Handbook which can be
downloaded at www.schoolnutrition.org/sns. The Exam Handbook contains the requirements,
content/knowledge areas, exam resource list to prepare for the exam, and application form.
41. Is there a fee for taking the Credentialing Exam?
A: Yes. The application fee is $210 for members and $305 for non-members. If you are not eligible to
sit for the exam or cancel your exam registration, you will receive a refund of the exam application fee
minus the $50 processing fee. Those who earn the SNS Credential will pay a yearly maintenance fee.
The yearly fee for members is $65 and $160 for non-members. Note that all fees associated with the
exam are subject to change at any time.
42. I took the SNS exam, how long will it take for me to receive the results from the exam?
A: The exam is scored by an independent testing vendor and it takes approximately 6-8 weeks after
the exam date for results to be issued. If you have passed the credentialing exam, you are given the
designation SNS as well as a card and certificate displaying the SNS designation. If you fail the exam,
you’ll receive a diagnostic report that shows which areas you scored weakest on.
43. I passed the SNS exam, how long is my credentialing renewal period?
A: The credentialing renewal period is every 3 years.
44. My Credential is scheduled to expire soon. Do I need to submit documentation of my CEUs?
A: You are only required to submit documentation of 45 CEUs if you are randomly selected for an
audit. SNA will send audit notification with your renewal notice. SNA maintains CEUs for SNA
sponsored activities that you attend. You can print your SNA transcript by login to the My Account
section of the SNA website at www.schoolnutrition.org. SNA offers online CEU courses via SNU at
www.snuniversity.org. SNS professionals can also complete the Professional Development Articles
(PDAs) from the School Nutrition magazine online by visiting www.schoolnutrition.org/PDA.
45. How can my SNA State Association host the SNS Credentialing exam?
A: Visit http://www.schoolnutrition.org/Credentialing/HostTheSNSExam/ to download the Exam Site
Request Form which includes the requirements and criteria for exam proctoring, roles and
responsibilities of SNA Headquarters, Exam Hosts and the Exam Candidate. States must also assign a
Primary and Secondary Proctor from a list of prospects. Please contact our Credentialing Staff at
certsns@schoolnutrition.org to request a list of pre-approved proctors for your state.
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