Somers board approves business agenda including universal free meals; parents still asked to complete free/reduced forms

The Somers Central School District Board of Education approved the business consent agenda that included the district’s free-and-reduced-price statement and related administrative items. District staff told the board that, under current rules discussed at the meeting, every child is entitled to a free complete breakfast and a free complete lunch, but parents should still complete free-and-reduced-price forms because federal program data affects reimbursements and eligibility for grants.

During the business consent discussion, staff explained that the universal free meals apply to complete breakfast and lunch; additional snacks, water and a la carte items remain chargeable. Staff also said the state will reimburse districts for some costs associated with implementing the new meal arrangements and that providing completed free-and-reduced applications matters for future funding and grant applications.

Board members confirmed that district communications and social media posts will clarify which items are free and which items still require payment. The district directed families with questions about the free-and-reduced forms to the cafeteria office; the transcript names Jill Weissman as the cafeteria contact and notes her information is on the website.

The business consent agenda was moved and seconded and approved by voice vote during the meeting. The transcript does not include a roll-call tally for the consent motion; attendees responded “Aye” when asked.