Backlash Mounts as Danvers Schools Seek to Prohibit Food Fundraisers and Address Slush Funds

The School Committee decided to postpone the initial review of a proposal aiming to eliminate fundraisers involving food during school hours. 

DANVERS, MA — The discontinuation of slush sales in Danvers Public Schools during school hours has faced strong opposition from numerous parents in the past weeks. School Committee members reported receiving hundreds of emails expressing concerns and questioning the decision to no longer permit this beloved fundraiser.

As part of the district's mandatory three-year review of its wellness policy, School Food Services Director Emily Cook proposed the removal of slush as a fundraising option. During a Monday meeting with the School Committee, Cook explained that the School Wellness Committee, based on their preferences, recommended a shift away from all food-based fundraisers conducted during the school day. Cook emphasized that slush, in particular, must be prohibited due to its failure to meet the nutritional quality standards set by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration. Non-compliance with these standards could potentially jeopardize the district's funding for free lunch programs.

However, representatives from a Parents Advisory Council voiced their disagreement during the public comment period, asserting that the sales of slush and other food items generate approximately $4,000 annually, which is allocated towards fostering school culture and supporting enrichment programs.

According to Cook, the removal of slush is merely a matter of enforcing the policy on USDA-approved items that the district is obligated to adhere to. However, the School Committee holds the authority to decide whether to implement a complete prohibition on all food-based fundraisers.

Cook expressed, "Our intention was to transition away from any fundraising activities involving food. Many other districts have already implemented similar policies, so it wouldn't be unprecedented in Danvers.”

During the public comment period, representatives of a Parents Advisory Council contended that the proceeds from sales of slush and other food items amount to approximately $4,000 annually, which is allocated to enhance school culture and enrichment programs.

"Let's eliminate that. Let's distance ourselves from that. Instead, let's focus on fundraisers that promote physical activity and explore alternative methods that align with a positive perception of health and wellness.”

Acting Superintendent Mary Wermers mentioned that "walk-a-thon" fundraisers have gained significant popularity and demonstrated success.

It was clarified that the enforcement change does not revolve around debating the nutritional merits of slush in comparison to other items that meet USDA standards, such as ice cream, maple syrup, and fried cheese sticks. Instead, it is a matter of the USDA's determination that certain items are permitted while others are not, and the district is obligated to maintain compliance with those regulations.

According to School Committee member Joshua Kepnes, the School Committee has received an overwhelming number of emails—amounting to hundreds—from individuals questioning the necessity of the proposed change.

School Committee member Gabe Lopes remarked, "There is an underlying factor here that goes beyond food. It involves the idea of gradually eroding something that brings joy to our schools. I believe this decision is simply the final tipping point for many of these parents.”

"I believe that's an entirely separate subject matter that deserves further discussion.”

The School Committee made the decision to delay the initial reading of the policy until the August meeting in order to facilitate additional dialogue. This dialogue, often referred to as a "slush summit," will involve representatives from district food services, administrators, and the Parents Advisory Councils (PACs) to explore alternative fundraising methods that can generate funds for programs in a fair and inclusive manner across all schools.