As of January, the Batesville School District had served 14,803 meals through its after-school meal program, more than doubling the number of lunches provided at the junior high and high school levels.
In a release, school officials said the high level of participation underscores the significant need for the initiative.
The district offers free after-school meals to all students through the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). While available to all students, the program has primarily benefited junior high and high school students due to their involvement in after-school activities.
Superintendent Dr. Ken James highlighted the broader impact.
“This initiative has been invaluable not only for our students but also for our visiting teams, cheer, dance, and band programs,” James said. “We can now serve the away team as well, providing not just hospitality to both home and visiting teams but also ensuring students receive the nutrition they need before they compete.”
School districts where at least half of the student population qualifies for free or reduced-price meals and that offer after-school enrichment programs are eligible to provide meals after school, on weekends, and during holidays.
Glenda Haley, area director for Opaa! Food Management, expressed gratitude for the district’s participation.
“We are so thankful to be eligible to participate in this program, which makes it possible for us to provide an afternoon meal to our students. This program helps us better fulfill our goal to provide a nutritious, high-quality food service program that meets our school families’ needs,” Haley said.
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