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ASPIN Members Advocate on the National Stage at the 2026 SNA Legislative Action Conference
by ASPIN Team
ASPIN’s Charlene Johnson joined over 800 school nutrition professionals from across the country in Washington, D.C., for the 2026 School Nutrition Association Legislative Action Conference (LAC), held March 8–10, 2026. The annual conference is a cornerstone of national advocacy, giving school nutrition leaders the opportunity to elevate their voices and represent the needs of students and programs at the federal level.
LAC equips attendees with critical knowledge about current legislative and regulatory issues impacting child nutrition programs, including funding stability, program operations, and policy proposals affecting school meals nationwide. Through focused educational sessions, ASPIN members strengthened their understanding of federal priorities and learned effective strategies for communicating the real-world impact of nutrition policy on Arizona schools and communities.
(Click to enlarge)A defining feature of LAC is Hill Day, where participants meet directly with members of Congress and their staff. ASPIN members proudly shared Arizona perspectives, highlighting the successes and challenges of operating school nutrition programs and reinforcing the importance of policies that support student health, operational sustainability, and local flexibility. These conversations help ensure that lawmakers hear directly from those working on the front lines every day.
Beyond advocacy, the conference offered valuable opportunities for networking and collaboration. ASPIN members connected with peers from other states, exchanged ideas, and built relationships that strengthen both state and national advocacy efforts.
Participation in the 2026 SNA Legislative Action Conference reflects ASPIN’s ongoing commitment to championing strong child nutrition policies and ensuring Arizona’s voice is heard at the national level.
Strengthening Partnerships Through In-Person Vendor Training
by Compliance Team
Recently, our team had the opportunity to meet in person with Grace Signs and School Specialty as part of our continued commitment to vendor collaboration and development. These meetings were designed not only to provide meaningful training, but also to strengthen relationships and gain a better understanding of how our vendors operate.
Spending time face to face allows both Mohave and our vendors to learn from one another, align expectations, and identify ways we can more effectively support Mohave member agencies together. These conversations help ensure our contracts, processes, and communication ultimately serve schools and public agencies in the best possible way.
In-person vendor training plays an important role in building strong partnerships and shared accountability. Vendors interested in hosting a similar training or site visit are encouraged to reach out to Erin Gordon at erin@mesc.org to start the conversation.
From Kits to Careers: Summer Programs Made Simple
by Contracts Team
As schools begin planning for summer learning opportunities, the focus continues to shift toward programs that are both engaging and meaningful. Districts are looking for ways to provide hands-on experiences that build real-world skills while keeping students connected and motivated.
The challenge is often not the ideas, but the time, resources, and procurement steps required to bring those ideas to life.
Mohave Cooperative offers contract solutions that allow districts to move from concept to implementation quickly, without the need to start from scratch.
Take Learning to New Heights with Drone Programs
Through Mohave’s 25F-0402 Drones, Remotely Operated Devices, Contracted Services, Sales, and Services contract, members can access more than just equipment. Available offerings include classroom instruction, hands-on drone kit building, and program support designed to create an interactive learning experience.
Participants can build their own drones, learn about flight operations, and explore concepts tied to engineering, aviation, and emerging technologies. These programs can be implemented as summer camps, enrichment opportunities, or part of existing CTE pathways, helping students develop career-connected skills in an engaging and relevant way.
Build the Program with Ready-to-Use Materials
Effective programs also require the right materials. Mohave’s 25O-0304 Classroom Supplies and Equipment–Direct Online Order contract provides access to a wide range of manipulatives, consumables, and classroom resources to support STEM and maker programs, arts-based activities, academic intervention, enrichment, and project-based learning. With readily available supplies, members can build and adapt programs quickly based on participant needs.
Expand Access with Online Learning Options
For added flexibility, Mohave’s 22F-1005 Classroom Courseware and Instructional Services contract provides access to online and blended learning solutions, including college and career readiness programs, CTE courseware, core subjects, electives, and instructional services. These options are especially valuable during summer months when staffing, scheduling, and space may be limited.
From Planning to Implementation
By leveraging cooperative contracts, members can reduce procurement timelines while maintaining compliance and focusing on what matters most: delivering meaningful learning experiences. Summer programs don’t have to be complex to make an impact. With the right tools in place, districts can start small and build programs that inspire students and support future career pathways.
Explore available contracts at mesc.org or contact the Mohave Cooperative Team at contracts@mesc.org for support in building your summer program.