Child Nutrition Program- Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I get free or reduced-price school meals for my children?

Households must complete the Free and Reduced-Price Meals application form and return it to the school. Only one application need be filled out by a family for children attending in this same school district. Applications are included in the student’s registration packet. You can also obtain an application at the school or by calling the Child Nutrition Department at (254) 857-8909.

2. Who do I contact if I have questions while filling out the form?

You may contact the Food Service Director at (254) 857-8909.

3. Will my child be overtly identified?

Every student is accounted for at the “check-out” process in exactly the same way. There is no way for one student to determine if another is on the free/reduced-price lunch program or a full-priced student with money on their account.

4. Can I apply for free and reduced-price meals later?

You may apply for free and reduced-price meals at any time during the school year. Also, if you are not eligible now but your economic situation changes during the school year (such as decrease in household income, an increase in household size, unemployment, receive food stamps or TANF), complete another form.

5. Will information on my form be kept confidential?

Yes.

6. How do I purchase meals for my child?

Each school’s cafeteria manager accepts deposits of cash or checks. If paying by check, please write your student’s name and ID number in the memo section of the check. Deposits can be made before school, during breakfast or during lunch. Checks may be sent with the student or mailed to the school to the attention of the cafeteria manager.

7. How can I check the balance of my child’s account?

You may call the cafeteria manager or visit the district’s website at www.lorenaisd.net. Click on the powerschool link, then parent/student access. Log in. If you do not already have a powerschool user id and password download the form from the powerschool webpage. Complete it and submit it to your campus office.

8. What happens to the money in my child’s account at the end of the school year, or if my child transfers to another LISD school?

Funds left in an account at the end of the year will be available for that student’s use during the next school year. Transferring students can access their account at any school within the district.

9. Is there a link between good eating habits and student performance in school?

Numerous studies indicate that there is a strong link between good eating habits and student performance in school. These studies indicate that the students who eat a healthy breakfast and lunch have better attendance, make fewer trips to the school nurse, score better on test and have fewer disciplinary problems. School meals play an important part because they provide one-third of the Recommended Dietary Allowances of protein, vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, calcium and calories while no more than 30 percent of calories come from fat and less than 10 percent from saturated fat. School meals provide students with a convenient, healthy, low-cost, nutritionally balanced meal.