Just remember, while Texas officials have take a fairly aggressive stance on foods served to students, these policies are based on FEDERAL rules to which all public schools receiving federal funds are subject.
So while your state may not choose to be as strict as Texas, keep in mind our state isn't making all this up from scratch. Some of these rules - especially the FMNV (Foods of Minimal Nutritional Value) - probably apply to you as well.
I'm not from Texas either and I ditto what C.Brooks said!
I wasn't reading the thread since it was not an issue for us and I am not in Texas either, but then since I saw how many posts were in it decided to do some reading of it. Gosh it is the food police. "Big brother" to the max!. If that happened here I know a can of whoop ______ would be opened! In particular, the celebrations of birthdays- give me a break! Glad to see someone came to their senses! (Someone should give the powers that be a cupcake with tons of fake icing on it and tell them to go chew on that!)
I think it bodes well that they are responding in a positive way to parent feedback with reasonable compromises. That announcement came out 8/23
TDA recognizes that celebrating student birthdays with a classroom party is a time-honored tradition that provides the opportunity for parental involvement in the education of their children, which is beneficial for students, parents and teachers. Foods otherwise restricted by the policy are permitted at student birthday parties. It is recommended such parties be scheduled after the end of the last lunch period so that these celebrations will not replace a nutritious lunch. Federal regulations do not permit foods of minimal nutritional value to be served in the food service area during meal periods.