Pelion-Area Schools Become Eligible For No-Cost Meals

The Lexington County School District One in Lexington, South Carolina has announced that four of their schools – Forts Pond Elementary, Pelion Elementary, Pelion Middle and Pelion High – will be participating in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) for the 2024-2025 school year.

Implementing The Community Eligibility Provision

The CEP is a part of Section 104(a) of the Healthy, Hunger Free Kids Act of 2010. This act amended section 11(a)(1) of the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act to provide an alternative to household applications for free and reduced-price meals in local educational agencies and schools with increased levels of low-income students.

Benefits For Students & Their Families

All enrolled students at the aforementioned schools can participate in the breakfast and lunch program without any charges. Furthermore, families will not have to fill out meal applications, eliminating additional paperwork. It aims to ensure that students, regardless of their financial background, have access to healthy meals and diet, which aids in better academic performance and general well-being.

Provision for Objections

Parents or guardians who do not wish for their children to participate in CEP have the right to discuss this matter. The discussion can be initiated on an informal basis with Deidre Yonce, the Director of the program. In case parents wish to make a formal appeal, they can make a request either orally or in writing to Jennifer Miller, Chief Financial Officer. Mrs. Miller’s office is located at 100 Tarrar Springs Road, Lexington, and she can be reached via phone at 803-821-1000.

Implications For The Future

The move to join CEP, although only announced for the 2024-2025 school year, could potentially set the foundation for future progress and improvements in the county’s educational system in terms of children’s health and nutrition.