a)In recognition of the demonstrated correlation between good nutrition and the capacity of children to develop and learn, and to more effectively meet the institutional needs of the children of the Virgin Islands, the Commissioner of Education is hereby authorized and directed to conduct special nutrition programs, including school lunches. Such programs shall be developed and conducted in full compliance with federal requirements for special nutrition programs. Nothing in this chapter shall be construed as authorizing programs which would disqualify the Virgin Islands from maximum federal funding of special nutrition programs under Title 42, Chapters 13 and 13A, United States Code, or any future amendments thereto.

a)In addition to all requirements of applicable federal law, each school food authority shall administer special nutrition programs that:

• (1)meet minimum nutritional Standard established by the Commissioner of Education;
• (2)include in the regular dietary program, when feasible, locally-grown or produced foods;
• (3)consider student views on food desirability, without sacrificing nutritional Standard;
• (4)coordinate with school principals and student representatives, a program designed to diminish waste of foods;
• (5)serve lunches free and/or at a reduced price to all children who are determined by the Commissioner to be eligible for such meals under applicable federal law;
• (6)are available to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex or handicap;
• (7)maintain a nonprofit school food service;
• (8)maintain necessary facilities for sanitary storing, preparing, and serving of food; and
• (9)observe all laws for storage, preparation, and service of food under proper sanitation and health Standard.