ISBE announces free and reduced-price meals eligibility guidelines for 2020-21 school year
SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) has announced the eligibility guidelines for students to receive free and reduced-price lunch, breakfast, and after-school snacks through the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program. The policy took effect at the start of fiscal year 2021 on July 1, 2020. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) sets the policy for each fiscal year to reflect any changes in the federal poverty guidelines.
The National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program are funded by the USDA and administered by ISBE. Free and reduced-price meals ensure access to nutritious meals and snacks for families unable to pay the full price.
"COVID-19 has changed the way schools serve meals to students across Illinois," said State Superintendent of Education Dr. Carmen I. Ayala. "School nutrition programs will continue to ensure every student has access to meals each and every school day, whether students are learning in-person or remotely. I appreciate all the school nutrition professionals across the state for their creativity and dedication in keeping students safe, fed, and healthy."
Families should also note that if they experience a change in income during the school year, they can reapply at any time for free or reduced-price meals by requesting a Household Eligibility Application from their child's school.
The USDA extended several nationwide waivers through the end of the 2020-21 school year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. These waivers give key flexibilities to school districts so they can provide meals to students with appropriate safety measures. The waivers allow for the establishment of grab-and-go meal sites, serving meals for multiple days at one time, delivery, and for parents and guardians to pick up meals on behalf of their students. More information on waivers to ensure safe distribution of meals can be found at www.isbe.net/nutrition.
The USDA's Fiscal Year 2021 Income Eligibility Guidelines are available on the ISBE's website at www.isbe.net/Documents/IEG-21.pdf. Families with questions about eligibility should contact their school or district for more information.