This project will characterize demographic and financial differences in the dependence on a la carte food sales among school food service programs. Specifically, the aims of this research are to: (a) classify and describe school districts according to their level of a la carte dependence, (b) explore key financial and demographic characteristics that distinguish low, moderate and heavy a la carte dependent districts, and (c) develop a comparative cost-analysis report that food service staff and policymakers can use to inform efforts to reduce, eliminate, or improve the nutritional quality of a la carte offerings. This project will consist of secondary data analysis of the 2008 Annual Financial Report for School Nutrition Programs and Wellness Policy Report provided to the Kansas State Department of Education by all 295 Kansas school districts. The findings from this work will be communicated to districts through a comparative cost-analysis report and to state stakeholders through issue briefs and invited testimonies.