For the 2026-2027 school year, Baldwin County Public Schools will continue to participate in the Community Eligibility Provision of the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program. The district announced that no further action is required of parents or guardians, as eligible students will automatically receive school meals at no cost.

The Community Eligibility Provision is part of the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010. The program allows schools and school districts in low-income areas to eliminate school meal applications and serve breakfast and lunch at no charge to every enrolled student.

School officials said the program benefits both students and cafeteria staff. By eliminating the need to process meal applications, food service professionals have more time to prepare nutritious meals. Students also spend less time waiting in lunch lines and more time eating.

District leaders said the program helps ensure children arrive in class ready to learn. Providing free, nutritious breakfasts and lunches to all enrolled students supports student health and removes financial barriers that could prevent children from participating in school meal programs.

Baldwin County Public Schools emphasized the importance of healthy meals for student success. Breakfast and lunch served through the program will continue to follow United States Department of Agriculture guidelines for healthy school meals. Officials are encouraging all students to participate in the meal program.

The district also reaffirmed its commitment to equal access in its child nutrition programs. According to the public release, "In the operation of child feeding programs, no child will be discriminated against because of race, sex, color, national origin, age, or disability."

Parents and guardians seeking additional information about the Community Eligibility Provision or the district's Child Nutrition Program may contact Erin Miller, Child Nutrition Program Director, at 251-970-4402.

The public release also includes the USDA's federal nondiscrimination statement. It explains that the agency prohibits discrimination in its programs based on protected characteristics under federal civil rights laws and regulations. The notice also provides information on requesting accommodations, filing discrimination complaints, and contacting the USDA by mail, fax, email, or the Telecommunications Relay Service.