Community Eligibly Provision
Dear Parents/Guardians,
As the Superintendent of Neoga Schools, I wanted to take a moment to share some important information regarding the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) and our district’s decision to participate in the upcoming 2023-24 school year.
What is the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP)?
The Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) is a federal program that allows eligible schools to provide free meals to all students, regardless of their individual eligibility for free or reduced-price meals. CEP is aimed at reducing paperwork and streamlining the process of meal service, ensuring that no child goes hungry due to financial constraints.
What does this mean for you and your children?
Great news for you and your student(s)! ALL enrolled students of NEOGA CUSD #3 are eligible to receive a healthy breakfast and lunch at school at no charge to your household each day of this school year. No further action is required of you. Your child(ren) will be able to participate in these meal programs without having to pay a fee or submit an application.
What food qualifies for free?
Each student each day can receive one breakfast tray and one lunch tray free of charge. Al a carte menu and other options such as extra milk are not free and come with an additional cost.
Why Neoga Schools has chosen to participate in 2023-24?
After careful consideration and evaluation, Neoga Schools has made the decision to participate in the CEP for the upcoming school year. This program aligns with our commitment to the overall well-being and success of our students. By offering free meals to all students, we aim to create an environment that fosters positive educational outcomes. Students must be ready to learn in order to learn.
Pilot Year 2023-24:
The 2023-24 school year will serve as a pilot year for Neoga Schools' participation in the CEP. This means that the success and sustainability of the program will depend on the level of participation and support we receive from our students and their families. We encourage you to take full advantage of this opportunity and participate in both breakfast and lunch programs.
Importance of Participation:
Participating in both breakfast and lunch programs is crucial not only for your child's individual health and nutrition but also for the overall success of the CEP in our school. Increased participation demonstrates the need and value of the program to our community, making it more likely that Neoga Schools will continue to participate in the CEP in subsequent school years beyond 2023-24.
By participating in both breakfast and lunch, you contribute to the overall strength and sustainability of the program, ensuring that all students have access to nutritious meals. If lunch and breakfast participation increases to levels they were when meals were previously free during 2020-21 and 2021-22 then this program can be sustainable. I encourage you to discuss the CEP with your child and emphasize the importance of partaking in both breakfast and lunch at school. Together, we can create a nurturing and supportive environment where every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Community Eligibility Provision or any other school-related
matter, please don't hesitate to contact our school office. We value your partnership and look forward to working together for the betterment of our students.
Thank you for your attention and continued support.
Sincerely,
Kevin Haarman
Superintendent
Neoga Schools