The targeted meal pattern flexibilities provided for this school year are to be utilized as needed. The Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) expects CEs will seek to meet meal pattern requirements to the greatest extent possible. TDA will consider requests that are targeted and justified with demonstrated need based on plans to support access to nutritious meals while minimizing potential exposure to COVID-19 on a case-by-case basis.

Directions: This page is a "gateway" to the Targeted Meal Pattern Flexibility forms. Please review the options below prior to selection. 

Use this gateway form to select only one (1) option at a time. You will need to submit a gateway form for each option that you want to implement. 

Options:

1. Age/Grade Group Meal Pattern Waiver (NSLP/SBP, SSO Only)
   • Select this option to request to waive age/grade group requirements at sites that are experiencing challenges implementing age/grade group requirements due to student safety and access concerns
     
     
2. Sodium Target Notification Form (NSLP/SBP, SSO Only)
   • Select this option to notify TDA if the CE intends to waive dietary specification for sodium through June 30, 2022
     
     
3. Targeted Meal Pattern Flexibility Waiver (CACFP, NSLP/SBP and SSO Only)
   • Select this option to request the flexibilities available in meeting the meal pattern requirements through June 30, 2022:
     • CACFP
       • At least one serving per day, across all eating occassions, must be whole grain-rich
       • That the crediting of grains by ounce equivalents (oz eq) must be fully implemented by October 1, 2021
       • That low-fat milk (1 percent) must be unflavored (children 6 years and older only) 
     • NSLP/SBP and SSO
       • All grains offered must be whole-grain rich
       • At least one whole grain-rich serving per day for pre-schoolers, across all eating occasions
       • Offer a variety of vegetables from the vegetable subgroup