WSMA Policy: Public Health: Universal Free Lunch Program

The WSMA advocates that beginning with the 2024-25 school year, school districts, including charter schools and state tribal education compact schools, shall provide breakfast and lunch each school day to any student at qualifying schools who requests a meal, (Res C-19, A-23)

The meals provided shall be at no charge to the requesting student and without consideration of the student’s eligibility for free or reduced-price meals. (Res C-19, A-23)

The meals must meet nutritional requirements and quality for reimbursement under the National School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program. (Res C-19, A-23)

This requirement applies to all public schools, ensuring every student has access to nutritious meals. (Res C-19, A-23)

The state Superintendent of Public Instruction may exempt school districts from these requirements if they demonstrate good cause for non-compliance. (Res C-19, A-23)

That schools participating in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Community Eligibility Provision that still need to complete the duration of the CEP’s four-year cycle are exempt from these requirements. (Res C-19, A-23)

The Washington Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction shall reimburse school districts per meal for meals not already reimbursed at the Department of Agriculture’s free rate. (Res C-19, A-23)

That school districts will continue collecting meal applications where applicable and conducting direct certification at least monthly. (Res C-19, A-23)

That school districts are encouraged to prioritize purchasing Washington-produced food when practicable and cost-comparable to non-Washington-produced food. (Res C-19, A-23)

That funding provisions for Washington state’s Learning Assistance Program and National Board Certification Bonuses shall be modified to align with the implementation of the universal free lunch program). (Res C-19, A-23)

The WSMA supports implementing this resolution to improve all students’ health, well-being, and educational outcomes. (Res C-19, A-23)

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Abbreviations for House of Delegates report origination:

EC – Executive Committee; BT – Board of Trustees; CPA – Council on Professional Affairs; JC – Judicial Council; CHS – Community and Health Services