Federal and state officials are out with income guidelines for the coming school year for free and reduced meals through the National School Lunch and Breakfast programs.
Department of Public Instruction spokesperson Tom McCarthy says the basic income to get free student meals is just over $31,000 for a family of four. To get a reduced meal price would be an income for a family of four up to $44,863.
McCarthy says students who are hungry don't do as well in school....
"...we know that students who come to school hungry are not ready to learn. So these programs are designed to make sure these students are fed and therefore at full capacity throughout the school day...."
Based on family circumstances some families already have qualified for free or reduced cost meals through other programs they are on. Contact your local school district if you have questions.
