Food Services FAQs
Q: How does eTrition/MySchoolBucks.com work?
A: The Seneca Valley School District Food Service uses a point of sale (POS) system called e-Trition and all schools use a pin pad. It’s for all students - paid, reduced and free- as well as teachers and staff members. One of the major advantages is the elimination of lunch money (actual coin and dollars) in an effort to speed up the lines and afford the children more time to sit down and eat. All students are identified only in the computer system by a code that tells the machine if they are free, reduced or paid. The POS system automates the purchase of all cafeteria meals and items, monitors student allergies, creates a student history and maintains student balance.
Q: What if I have more than one child signed up in MySchoolBucks?
A: The online system allows you to enter each child separately and determine how much money goes into the account for only one fee amount.
Q: What if I still choose to send cash instead of using the online system?
A: If you choose to send cash or checks, please send to the appropriate buildings with the dollar amount specified for each child along with an ID number or a name on the inside flap or outside.
Q: How do I know what my child buys every day?
A: Please create an account within MySchoolBucks.com to view all your child’s daily purchases. There is no fee for this service.
Q: What if I don’t want to use MySchoolBucks? How can I put money into my child’s account?
A: You may put money on the account by sending cash or a check to school. The cash/check should be put in an envelope with the amount enclosed and your child’s name on the envelope. If you have children in various buildings, please send separate checks to appropriate buildings.
Q: My child has a peanut allergy. Does eTrition/MySchoolBucks.com show that?
A: If we are informed of a child’s special dietary need, it will be programmed into the system to alert the food services personnel. You may also contact Seneca Valley Food Service Coordinator Faye Nelson at nelsonfd@svsd.net to add any message to the account.
Q: What if my child forgets his/her pin number?
A: The pin number that is assigned to your child will stay with your child throughout his/her school career. If your child forgets his/her pin number, it can be accessed at the checkout using their last name or classroom assignment. Pin numbers are also on file in the Food Services office.
Q: How will I know if my child’s account is low on money?
A: An email will be sent every Thursday if you are low or carry a negative balance.
Q: Can I limit how much my child spends?
A: Yes, you may set a spending limit or not allow any extra purchases at all. Please contact Seneca Valley Food Service Coordinator Faye Nelson at nelsonfd@svsd.net. You may also work within the MySchoolBucks online program.
Q: Can my child buy "extras" using this system?
A: Yes, money can be used for "extras" or à la carte items, and we can track your child’s spending. If you qualify for free/reduced lunches, you may still add money to an account for "extras."
Q: Will cash still be accepted?
A: Cash is not the preferred method of payment; however, cash can be used at any time for a lunch or "extras" transaction. We strongly recommend having an account as it is much easier for your child.
Q: What if my child has a free or reduced lunch?
A: Free and reduced students must reapply for the program each year. A new application must be received within the first 30 days of the school year. Otherwise, your child will be removed from the program.
Q: If I have money in accounts for multiple children, can I transfer money between these accounts?
A: Yes, but only by contacting the Foods Service Department at 724-452-6040, ext. 1655 or via email at nelsonfd@svsd.net.
Q: If I have money remaining in my child’s accounts at the end of the school year, what happens to that money?
A: The money will roll over into next year and remain in your child’s account.
Q: If I decide to put money on my child’s account, who do I make the check out to?
A: Checks can be made payable to: SVSD - FOOD SERVICE.
If you have any questions about the Food Services Department, email Nolen Fetchko, Seneca Valley Food Services Director at fetchkona@svsd.net
