In the second session, Operational Planning, Scott explained the difference between strategic and operational plans. Explaining that strategic plans are broad, high-level documents with long-term objectives (3-5 years), while operational plans are more detailed, aligned with the mission and vision, and are done yearly with budget requests.
Operational plans are required for securing reliable funding, aligning school food programs (SFPs) with district priorities, and ensuring long-term success. To create an operational plan (OP), Scott suggested five steps to implementing a program, from allocating resources to utilizing the planning to produce new possibilities. He also provided reflection questions to help guide the planning process.
