Governor Walz highlights Minnesota Free School Meals success in first year of implementation

During a recent meeting of the Minnesota Senate Committee on Education Finance, significant discussions centered around the successes of the Minnesota Free School Meals program, which has been operational for over a year and a half. This initiative, signed into law by Governor Tim Walz on March 17, 2023, aims to combat food insecurity among students, a critical barrier to learning.

The Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) highlighted that the program has successfully served over 50 million meals, including both breakfast and lunch, during its first year. This achievement reflects a 15% increase in lunches and a remarkable 40% increase in breakfasts served compared to the previous school year. The increase in meal participation is attributed to the program's design, which includes higher state meal reimbursement rates and requirements for schools to participate in the federal Community Eligibility Provision (CEP). This provision allows schools with a high percentage of students eligible for free or reduced-price meals to provide free meals to all students, regardless of income.

Financially, the Minnesota Free School Meals program has saved families approximately $267 million, translating to about $1,000 in savings per student per year. This financial relief is particularly significant for families who previously struggled with meal costs, which averaged $2.25 for breakfast and $3.50 for lunch.

The meeting also emphasized the importance of targeted outreach efforts by MDE and community partners to maximize federal funding and ensure schools are aware of their eligibility for the CEP. Continuous audits and research have allowed schools to quickly adapt and join the program, further enhancing meal access for students.

Overall, the Minnesota Free School Meals program has not only improved access to nutritious meals but also contributed to a supportive learning environment for students. As the program continues to evolve, its impact on student well-being and academic performance remains a focal point for state education officials.