COLUMBUS, Ohio — Students at Canal Winchester Schools will be able to get breakfast and lunch at no cost during the 2024-2025 school year.
The offer was made possible by the Community Eligibility Provision, an option for the nation’s highest-poverty schools and districts to serve breakfast and lunch at no cost to all students.
According to the district, approximately 45% of Canal Winchester students qualified for free or reduced lunches during the 2023-2024 school year.
"This initiative supports our students' well-being, ensuring they have the nutrition they need to stay focused and succeed in the classroom,” said Superintendent Kiya Hunt. “By removing the barriers of food insecurity, we are creating a more equitable learning environment and easing the financial burden on families. This program is a significant step forward in our commitment to supporting the whole child and enhancing the educational experience for every student in our district."
The Board of Education is expected to vote to formally approve its participation in the program at a board meeting in August.
Once implemented, the district says there is no need for parents to sign their child up. All students will be automatically eligible to receive free meals at Canal Winchester Schools.
“Through this program, we’ll be able to ensure that all of our students have access to a healthy breakfast and lunch each school day at a minimal cost to the district,” said Treasurer Nick Roberts. “We’re excited to offer this opportunity to better support children and families in our community and to further enrich the educational resources and experiences that Canal Winchester Schools provides.”
In May, Washington Court House City Schools announced they would also implement free lunches for its students. Advocates say reducing administrative burdens like applications helps ensure children don’t go hungry.
