The 2022-23 school year has started for most kids in Nebraska, and we want to make sure that families and districts are set up for success. Free and reduced-price meal applications can be a big part of that – especially because the free school meals that were made possible through legislation passed at the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic have ended.
New application forms are required each year.
Why are free & reduced-price meal forms important?
Free and reduced-price meal forms can connect eligible families with other benefits beyond free or reduced-price school meals. Families may also be eligible for:
- Reduced-cost or free extracurriculars or equipment
- Reduced-price internet services
- Waived college admission test fees and college application costs
- Certain academic offerings, such as pre-K, digital education programs, and evening and summer classes for high school students
- Free or reduced-cost athletic program registration
Completed free and reduced-price forms also help the district! These applications help schools and districts gain access to education, library, and other types of funding.
Your family’s private information will be kept private
Student information collected by districts is protected by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), as well as The Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act (NSLA). Both acts require strict confidentiality about any student information obtained for the school meals program. Additionally, only select district staff are permitted to handle any collected information, which will not be shared beyond the scope of this program. (To learn more, visit the National Center for Education Statistics.)
How to submit your application
Each district has a different process for collecting free and reduced-price meal application forms. Check your district’s website for information or contact with your school’s administration for a paper application. For example, Lincoln Public Schools has an application portal full of useful information and reminders. Just fill out some quick location, student, and income data and you’re finished!
Let’s make sure your family is receiving the meals for which you’re eligible – and support the school district at the same time! Fill out your application today.