LYNDHURST, Ohio — Thanks to a new program, there will be such thing as a free lunch– and breakfast, too — for all South Euclid-Lyndhurst Schools students.
The South Euclid-Lyndhurst School District has announced that all of its students will receive daily a free breakfast and lunch, regardless of income.
The new program is part of the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) of the federally assisted National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program. All SE-L students are automatically enrolled in the program, which will commence Oct. 7.
“We’re thrilled to provide free breakfast and lunch for all of our students,” said Superintendent Dominick Kaple, in a District release. “Ensuring every child is well-nourished means they can focus on what truly matters — their education.
“This program is a game changer for our families, removing a barrier to student success and promoting equality across our district. We are proud to offer this opportunity to our community and look forward to the positive impact it will have on both the well-being and academic achievement of our students.”
The CEP is a free program for eligible public school districts. Districts must apply through the state, which involves calculating the percentage of students who are identified as eligible for school meals for any reason other than a free and reduced student meal application.
If the percentage is 25 percent or higher, the district is eligible. Schools participating in the program will be partially reimbursed for each meal served.
The CEP can also serve to eliminate the stigma associated with free or reduced-price meals, promoting equality and fostering a supportive atmosphere for all students.
The South Euclid-Lyndhurst Schools food services department is adjusting inventory and ordering processes to prepare for the anticipated increase in demand.
The free meal will be the set, main meal for each day, although additional items will still be available for purchase.
According to SE-L Schools, all meal offerings meet the nutritional requirements for schools and encourage healthy food habits and exploration of new, healthy foods.
The District states that each school building will have a varying amount of time for students to eat breakfast, but breakfast will be readily available at all schools for students who want or need it.
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