By now, you've heard that students receive complimentary breakfast and lunch this year at the district due to an appropriation in the state's School Aid budget. But did you know that doesn't mean an extra meal or a la carte items are also free? If ala carte items are sold in your child's school, you can add money to a Food Service account online through Parent Connect (this is the preferred method). A check with the student's name on the memo line or cash can also be given at any cash register, or elementary school students can provide cash or a check to their teacher or school secretary in a clearly marked envelope with the child's first and last name.
Although all students can receive meals at no cost, it is still very important to fill out a free/reduced meal application: A school's eligibility for federal Child Nutrition Programs such as the Summer Food Service Program and others are based on free and reduced-price eligibility. Students and families may qualify for other program fee reductions based on their eligibility for free or reduced-price meals. You can find the free and reduced lunch program application with this link.
Families who qualify for free and reduced lunch can also sign up for Blessings In A Backpack and receive enough food for three meals daily on the weekends. A food bag will be put in your child's locker for take-home on Fridays. The simple meals may include macaroni and cheese, beef ravioli, canned fruit, granola bars, soups, juice, and other items. Students will receive a bag every week.
If you want your child to participate in this program, complete the sign-up form with this link. Please be sure to indicate on the form if your child has any food allergies. If your child has a food allergy, you, as the parent or guardian, are responsible for checking all food labels when the food arrives home. Royal Oak School and Blessings in a Backpack will not be held accountable for accidental food allergen exposure.