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School meals help students focus, learn, and grow. Texas public schools offer breakfast and lunch through federally supported programs designed to make sure every student has access to healthy food throughout the school year—and even during summer break.
The Angelton ISD nutrition department created and served special holiday meals for students.
School meals are carefully designed to support students’ health and learning. They follow the USDA Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which set standards for nutrition, food safety, and balanced eating. A typical lunch includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and milk. Many schools also offer breakfast to help students start the day focused and ready to learn.
In recent years, nutrition standards for school meals have been updated to include more healthy ingredients such as fresh produce and whole grains, while reducing items like sodium and trans fats. According to the Center for Science in the Public Interest, these improvements make school meals healthier and more beneficial for growing kids.
Public schools are required to follow these federal nutrition and safety standards, while some charter or private programs may follow different guidelines.
School meal programs in Texas are designed to ensure that every student has access to healthy food, no matter their family’s financial situation. Many families qualify for free or reduced-price meals through the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and School Breakfast Program (SBP), which help remove cost as a barrier to good nutrition.
Eligibility is typically based on household income and family size, but children may also qualify automatically under certain conditions. Your child may be eligible if your household:
Receives SNAP (food stamps), TANF, or Medicaid
Meets the income guidelines set by the USDA
Is part of the foster care system
Is homeless, a migrant, or a runaway
Participates in Head Start
Some schools also participate in special programs that provide free meals to all students, regardless of income. Check with your school district to learn what’s available in your area.
Most schools send meal applications home at the beginning of the school year, but families can apply online through their district’s child nutrition department at any time. Only one application is needed per household; all information is kept private and secure.
When school is out, free summer meals are available to children and teens through the Summer Meal Programs offered in communities across Texas. These programs are open to anyone 18 and under, and no registration or application is needed.
Meals are typically served at schools, parks, libraries, and community centers. You can use the resources below to find a site near you.
Q1: Are school meals healthy and nutritious?
A: Yes. Texas public schools follow strict federal and state guidelines to provide well-balanced, nutritious meals that meet daily dietary needs. Meals include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy options.
Q2: Are school meals free for all students?
A: Some students qualify for free or reduced-price meals based on family income. Many schools also offer free meals to all students through federal programs like the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP).
Q3: How do I apply for free or reduced-price meals?
A: Parents can apply through their school district’s nutrition services department, either online or with a paper form. Applications are reviewed confidentially and must be renewed annually.
Q4: What types of meals are served in public schools?
A: Schools typically offer breakfast and lunch, and many offer after-school snacks or supper. Menus often feature fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
Q5: Are special dietary needs or allergies accommodated?
A: Yes. School nutrition staff work with families to accommodate food allergies and special dietary needs. Parents should notify the school and may need to provide documentation from a healthcare provider.
Q6: Do schools serve meals during the summer?
A: Many public schools offer free summer meals through the USDA’s Summer Food Service Program. These meals are available to all children 18 and under, regardless of income or enrollment status.
Q7: Who prepares school meals?
A: Trained child nutrition professionals plan, prepare, and serve school meals. Many districts employ certified dietitians to oversee menus and ensure compliance with nutrition standards.
Q8: Can parents see what’s on the school menu?
A: Yes. Most school districts publish menus online or through apps so parents and students can review daily meal options.
Q9: Why are school meals important for student success?
A: Healthy meals support focus, behavior, and academic performance. Students who eat nutritious meals are more likely to succeed in school and build lifelong healthy habits.
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