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District 69 says free-meal program boosted participation; new 21st Century grant will add $450,000 annually
Summary
District administrators reported that the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) increased lunch participation by 33% and breakfast participation by 275% since 2023–24, and the district secured a three-year 21st Century Community Learning Centers grant providing $450,000 per year for after-school and summer programming across all schools.
District 69 officials reported that the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP), which provides universal free breakfast and lunch, substantially increased student meal participation after its 2023–24 implementation.
"Meal participation has increased significantly, with lunch participation rising 33% and breakfast participation increasing 275%," Ms. Mira Rodgers told the Board. Rodgers also reminded the Board that the 2026–27 school year is the final year of the current four-year CEP cycle and that reapplication is required in April 2027. Separately, the administration reported a new three-year 21st Century Community Learning Centers Grant that will provide $450,000 annually to support after-school and summer programming across all three schools.
