The Nye County School District (NCSD) is pleased to announce that it will continue offering free lunches to all enrolled students in the district, through the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) program. This initiative, which has been part of NCSD’s commitment for many years, ensures that every student has access to nutritious meals without any cost, fostering better learning and overall well-being.
The CEP program, combined with the temporary Universal Free Meals program over the past two years, has enabled NCSD to receive the highest reimbursement rates for breakfast and lunch. This temporary funding from the Universal Free Meals program has been crucial in supplementing the CEP program across Nevada, ensuring that all students, including those who would otherwise have to pay for their meals, are covered.
To qualify for the CEP, schools must have a free/reduced rate of 40% or higher. This threshold can be met either by individual schools or by averaging the rate across the entire district. NCSD chose the latter approach, ensuring that all students, regardless of their school, benefit from free meals.
“By averaging the free/reduced rate across the district, we can guarantee that every student has access to free meals,” Kyera Glenn, Food Service Coordinator for the district, said. “This approach aligns with our mission to provide equitable resources and support to all students, promoting a healthier, more focused learning environment.”
This initiative not only alleviates the financial burden on families but also ensures that students receive the nutrition they need to succeed academically. The NCSD’s commitment to programs like CEP reflects its dedication to supporting the community and enhancing the educational experience for every student.