Meal Policy Updates

  • Free School MealsThe 2024-2025 meal application is now available! Access it online to ensure meal benefits for your student(s). Even if you're not sure if you'd qualify, it doesn't take more than a few minutes to complete, and there are no drawbacks to submitting. The online application is available below, and there is further information on this page that provides greater insight into the program.

    2024-2025 MEAL APPLICATION

    2024-2025 Meal Charge Policy Letter (English) / 2024-2025 Meal Charge Policy Letter (Spanish)

    Many school sites won't require families to fill out meal applications. If your student attends a school where meals are free for all students (English version / Spanish version), they will continue to receive daily breakfast and lunch meals at no cost in 2024-2025. You DO NOT need to fill out a meal application at any time.

    Students not attending universal free schools need to complete the meal application to determine whether they are eligible to receive free school meals.

    Meal Application Highlights:

    • To complete a meal application, click on the Meal Application link above, and submit online.
    • Paper copies of the meal application are available at your student’s school; completed applications can be returned to the office.
    • Applications for the 2024-2025 school year can be filled out starting on July 1, 2024.
    • Families with six or more children must submit a paper application.
    • Eligibility for the program is based on total household income.
    • Only one application needs to be filled out per household.
    • New applications are required each school year.
    • Income guidelines to qualify for free meals
    • U.S. citizenship of parents or children is not required to fill out or qualify for free meals.
    • The application process is designed to be simple and confidential, ensuring that it’s easy for you to apply for free school meals.
    • If you find you don’t qualify now, you can apply again at any point throughout the school year. If your household income changes or the size of your household changes, it may be beneficial to re-apply.
    • If you need access to a computer with internet access, you can visit one of the Washoe Libraries or the Family Resource Centers to complete the online application.
    • If your family doesn’t qualify for free school meals, your child can still obtain paid meals. To sign up, use MySchoolBucks.

    Any questions about the meal application, process, or eligibility, please contact Kristy McDonald at 775-325-8431 or kristy.mcdonald@WashoeSchools.net.