The Iowa Department of Education recently updated its guidelines for the National School Lunch Program, which provides free and reduced priced meals to public schools. In order to qualify for the program, households must meet income requirements and apply through the appropriate channels. For example, a family of two would qualify for free meals if they earn less than $20,826 a year, or reduced price meals if they earn less than $29,637 a year.
Mid-Prairie Superintendent Mark Schneider believes the program is very important. He encourages all students to eat in the hot lunch program, and for those students whose families can’t afford the price of a full meal, taking part in the free and reduced price meals can help their kids have at least one nutritious meal every day. According to Schneider, approximately 30% of Mid-Prairie students qualify for the free and reduced lunch program. People who would like to take part in the program are encouraged to speak with their schools to find out if they meet the guidelines.