With registration for the 2026-2027 school year opening on Aug. 1, we want to make sure every family in our school community knows about a simple opportunity to save money this school year: applying for free or reduced-price school meals.

Many families who qualify never apply, sometimes because they assume they won’t be eligible, or because they'd rather not ask. But the eligibility guidelines are based on income levels that include a wide range of households, and applying is quick, confidential, and comes with no obligation.

About 40% of families in our district received the benefit of free or reduced school meals during the 2025-2026 school year.

Here's what that could mean for your family:

• Reduced-price meals can save $600–$750 or more per school year per student, depending on grade level and whether they eat breakfast, lunch, or both at school.

• Some families may qualify for free meals, which could save $750 to $880 per school year per student.

The same application is used to determine both free and reduced-price eligibility, so there's no separate process. One simple form covers both.

It costs nothing to apply, and if you don't qualify, nothing changes. But if you do qualify, it's real savings starting right away.

The application information will be included in your student's registration. Our Foods Department staff is happy to help if you have any questions, or you can contact the office at your child’s school.

Thank you for taking a few minutes to check your eligibility. It could make a real difference for your family this coming school year.