School District 166 reminds families that reduced lunch program helps with more than food

School districts rely on funding from the free and reduced-price lunch program for more than food for students. Data acquired from applications for the program helps schools learn what other services are needed to help students affected by poverty.

That ultimately leads to funding that benefits those students and the school overall, through services such as counseling and the ability to maintain small class sizes.

Schools across the state have seen a slow return of the applications for the free and reduced-price lunch program, and School District 166 is no exception.

ISD 166 Business Manager Lori Backlund said the lack of applicants, and therefore eligible students, could mean a financial reduction of $140,000 to the school’s budget.

Backlund encourages those who have been eligible for the free and reduced-price lunch program in the past to complete and return the form. However, she adds that anyone who has a change in employment or financial status is also encouraged to apply.

To apply, parents can pick up a form at the school or access it via Parent Portal online. You can also find the form here.
WTIP’s Rhonda Silence spoke with Business Manager Lori Backlund about the free and reduced-price lunch program and its benefit to the school in this interview.

Rhonda Silence December 28, 2020