Great news, Pickerington students! Fuel up for success next school year with FREE breakfast and lunch for ALL students throughout the 2024-2025 year! See below for details.

Free Meals FAQ for Families

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP)?

The Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) is a federal program that helps schools and districts meet eligibility to serve no-cost lunches and breakfasts to all their students. This program aims to ensure that every child has access to nutritious meals without the need for an approved free or reduced meal application. It's designed to reduce the stigma associated with receiving free meals and to increase participation in school nutrition programs.

 

Does my child need to sign up for the free breakfast and lunch program?

No, your child does not need to sign up for the free breakfast and lunch program. All students in Pickerington Local Schools are automatically eligible to receive free meals every school day for the 2024-2025 school year.

 

Are there any forms or applications I need to fill out to receive the free meals?

No, families do not need to complete any forms or applications for free meals for the 2024-2025 school year. All students are eligible for free meals through the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP).

 

Are there any forms or applications I need to fill out for academic fees waivers?

Yes, in order to apply for the academic fee waiver, Tussing Elementary All Day Kindergarten tuition waiver or the AP waivers, you must complete the Household Income Survey within your Parent Portal in Infinite Campus. You may also request a paper Household Income Survey from your child’s school or print the application that is located on the Food Services webpage. The form must be completed in its entirety, which includes providing permission to share your information with the approved programs.

 

What is included in the free lunch and breakfast?

The free lunch and breakfast will include a variety of nutritious meal options that meet the USDA nutrition standards. This includes a main entree, vegetables, grains, fruits, and milk. To learn more about what makes a meal, please visit the USDA website.

 

Will a la carte items still be available for purchase in the cafeteria?

Yes, à la carte items will still be available for purchase in the cafeteria.

While the meals are free, any additional items that are not part of the meal will need to be purchased separately.  Examples of à la carte items would be an extra milk, extra slice of pizza or sandwich or a bag of chips. À la carte items cannot be charged. To purchase à la carte items, families can add funds to their student’s lunch account at mypaymentsplus.com or send cash or check payable to PLSD Food Service with your child(ren). Any remaining money will be added to your child(ren)’s account for future à la carte purchases.

 

Will all items in the cafeteria be free?

No, not all items in the cafeteria will be free. Only breakfast and lunch meals provided through the CEP program will be free. A la carte items will need to be purchased.

 

Can my child still bring their own lunch if they prefer?

Yes, your child can still bring their own lunch from home if they prefer. The CEP program is available for all students, but participation is not mandatory.

 

How will this program affect students who previously qualified for reduced-price meals?

Students who previously qualified for reduced-price meals will now receive their meals for free, along with all other students. This program eliminates the need for reduced-price meals by providing free meals for all students.

 

Are there any additional costs or fees associated with this program?

No, there are no additional costs or fees associated with this program. The breakfast and lunch meals provided under the CEP program are completely free for all students.

 

How can I get more information or ask further questions?

If you have a question we didn’t answer, please send an email with your questions to Food Services Director Suzie Gerhardt at suzie_gerhardt@plsd.us or the Food Services office at 614-833-3645.

Meal Examples: