USD 250 Elects CEP: Students Eat Free

Pittsburg Community Schools USD 250 has elected to participate in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) for the 2025–2026 school year. This program allows all students in USD 250 to receive free breakfast, lunch, and after-school snacks, regardless of household income.

In previous years, families were required to complete a free and reduced-price meal application. This form provided benefits to families that fell under the financial threshold. Under CEP, families are no longer required to apply for free or reduced meals. Instead, a Household Economic Survey will be completed during the enrollment process beginning July 1, 2025.

Completing the Household Economic Survey is essential, as it enables USD 250 to secure at-risk funding from the federal government. This funding supports additional services and resources across the district.

Currently, at-risk funding provides additional educational personnel, instructional programs, behavioral support, and curriculum resources. It is critical that all families complete the Household Economic Survey so that USD 250 can continue receiving this vital support.

MySchoolBucks, the service used for meal balances, purchases, and payments, will continue to be available for à la carte items. If your child utilizes their meal account for additional purchases, they will need to have money in their account.

“CEP is a wonderful opportunity for all USD 250 students and their families. We are so excited to be able to provide this service to everyone, regardless of income eligibility,” said Summer Warren, USD 250 Director of Nutritional Services. “I believe this will have a positive impact that will ripple across our entire community.”