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Waterloo board votes to end CEP after $100,000 shortfall in food service program
Summary
Facing a reimbursement gap, the Waterloo Board of Education voted July 14 to discontinue the Community Eligibility Provision for 2026–27; free or reduced-price meals will remain available through the application process.
The Waterloo Board of Education voted July 14 to discontinue the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) for the 2026–27 school year after staff said the program produced an unsustainable reimbursement shortfall.
A staff member summarized the district’s analysis: “So it's roughly about a $100,000 loss this year with the cafeteria program,” and said the district’s per-meal reimbursement did not cover costs given lower free-and-reduced percentages. Board members discussed the mechanics of reimbursement and confirmed that families will still be able to apply for free or reduced-price meals through the standard application process.
Board discussion clarified that the food-service fund remains solvent for now, but continuing CEP would have worsened the district’s long-term fiscal position. The motion to discontinue CEP passed. Staff said they would communicate next steps to families and maintain targeted supports for eligible households.
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