Take Your First Step Towards Achieving the SNS Credential

1. Take Your First Step Towards Achieving the SNS Credential

2. Agenda Importance of the SNS Credential Eligibility Requirements About the Exam Preparation Tools and Resources About the Study Guide Exam Tips & FAQs Q & A

3. A School Nutrition Specialist (SNS) SNS = a professional who successfully passed the School Nutrition specialist exam, by demonstrating the knowledge and competencies necessary to manage school nutrition programs.

4. About the SNS Based on job analysis by ICN, 2009. Identified knowledge areas Reviewed regularly and updated as needed Aligned with USDA Professional Standards learning areas

5. Governing Council Governs the program and all policies and standards related to the SNS Credential An autonomous arm of SNA. Not involved in development of any preparatory resource No preparatory resource endorsed by the Governing Council

6. Why Earn the SNS? PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS ARE HERE!

7. Why Earn the SNS? Formalizes your professional achievement Enhances your professional image Expands your career opportunities Establishes a foundation for professional standards Demonstrates your commitment to your profession

8. In Addition, for State Agencies Helps you better understand school nutrition operations Enables others to identify you as an accomplished leader in school nutrition Helps you do a better job!

9. And, for Industry • Enhances your professional image and credibility with operators • Demonstrates your commitment and your company’s commitment to the school nutrition segment and profession • Helps you do a better job!

10. Are you eligible to take the exam?

11. About the Exam 200 Questions 4 Hours to complete Takes 3-4 months to study Can take exam more than once

12. The 4 Key Areas Covered Based on SNA’s Four Key Areas in SNA’s Keys to Excellence Aligned with USDA’s 4 Key Areas for Professional Standards Aligned with competency areas identified in ICN job analysis

13. The 4 Key Areas Key Area 1: Nutrition(17%) Key Area 2: Operations (40%) Key Area 3: Administration (36%) Key Area 4: Marketing & Communications (7%)

14. Exam Content & Knowledge Areas Key Area I: Nutrition 17% 1. Menu and Nutrition Management – 17 % Key Area II: Operations 40% 2. Facilities, Technology and Equipment Management –5% 3. Food Production and Operations Management – 15 % 4. Procurement and Inventory Management – 5.5 % 5. Food Security, Sanitation and Safety – 14.5 %

15. Exam Content & Knowledge Areas Key Area III: Administration 36% Program Management and Accountability – 10% Human Resource Management – 10% Financial Management – 16 % Key Area IV: Marketing & Communications 7% 9. Marketing and Communications – 7%

16. When was the last time you took an exam? I am often in exam mode. Less than 3 years ago. Hmmm, maybe 10 to 15 years ago? LOL! Let’s just say it’s been ages…

17. It can be stressful…

18. But it can also be enjoyable…

19. Tips for Prepping for the Exam • Use the SNS Credentialing Exam Handbook • Use the references (about 25 references total) • Form a study group or contact your chapter or SNA state affiliate to connect with others www.schoolnutrition.org/SNS

20. Read the References • School Food & Nutrition Service Management for the 21st Century, 6th edition, Dorothy Pannell-Martin & Julie A. Boettger • SNA’s Keys to Excellence best practices indicators www.schoolnutrition.org/Keys • USDA resources www.schoolnutrition.org/SNS • ICN resources www.theICN.org/SNSExam * Full reference list available on the SNA website www.schoolnutrition.org/SNS

21. Enhance Your Study Attend conferences and webinars Take more courses Attend trainings Read the SNA magazine Catch up on regulations Review the Keys to Excellence best practices indicators

22. Purpose of the Study Guide • Help you prepare • Guide your study • Pre-test to identify your strengths and areas to work on • Test yourself with post-test • Multiple choice questions + exam sheet • DOES NOT CONTAIN QUESTIONS ON THE EXAM

23. SNS Study Guide & Book MEMBERS ONLYOFFER! $59 each or $109 for both Non-Member Price: $69 each $6 S&H Order Online www.schoolnutrition.org/SNS

24. Study Tips Start preparing ASAP Look closely at the exam content areas – those with higher percentages make up an important part of the exam Know your strengths and work on the areas you need to improve Form a study group

25. Exam Tips • A calculator is permitted but brush up on math skills (solving math problems) if needed • Answer every question • Don’t skim the question. Read carefully. • Answer the easiest questions first. Then go back to the harder ones.

26. The Day of the Exam Bring a calculator Bring two sharpened #2 pencils Get a good night’s sleep the night before Go ahead and write in your exam booklet Check in half an hour early Don’t panic!

27. Complete the Exam Application • Download the SNS Credentialing Exam Handbook • You must: • Submit a copy of your transcript • Submit the application and appropriate fee www.schoolnutrition.org/SNS

28. Exam Fees

29. Getting the Exam Results • Results: In 6 to 8 weeks after exam. • Pass: Use the SNS designation after your name, receive and SNS Certificate and can order the SNS Pin. • Didn’t Pass: Receive a letter and Diagnostic Report showing the areas of weakness in the exam.

30. For Exam Dates www.schoolnutrition.org/sns

31. Questions?

32. Thank you!