brightwheel helps simplify CACFP compliance by bringing menus, meal tracking, and reporting into one connected workflow. Use the tips below to build CACFP-ready menus, catch issues early, and prepare accurate reports with less manual work.
✅ Tip 1: Plan CACFP-ready menus ahead of time
Build menus in brightwheel in advance using templates and food libraries to stay organized and meet CACFP requirements before meals are served.
When menus include CACFP-required food items, Staff can log meals faster using preset menu food lists.
✅ Tip 2: Watch for missing meal component
CACFP guardrails automatically flag missing required meal components as you build or assign menus, so you can fix issues before claims are impacted.
Look for any 'Missing' alerts when building menus.
💡 Learn more: Manage CACFP guardrail settings
✅ Tip 3: Assign meal types for accurate reimbursement
Ensure each student is marked as Free, Reduced, or Paid so reimbursement reports stay accurate.
💡 Learn more: How to assign a student’s Meal Type
✅ Tip 4: Review CACFP reports before submitting claims
Use CACFP reports to confirm meals are complete and ready for reimbursement:
Daily claimed meals report
Meal summary report
You can also send data directly to My Food Program (MFP) if applicable.
🚩 Important: Students must be checked into the correct room before meals are logged, or meals may not appear correctly in reports.