Every student at Lexington Public Schools qualifies for free breakfast and lunch for the 2026-27 school year, the district announced Thursday, Aug. 27.
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts is supplementing federal National School Lunch Program funds so families pay nothing for meals, regardless of household income. All ten district schools participate: Bowman Elementary, Bridge Elementary, Diamond Middle, Estabrook Elementary, Fiske Elementary, Harrington Elementary, Hastings Elementary, Clarke Middle, Lexington Children's Place and Lexington High School, according to a district announcement published in the Lexington Observer.
But the district is urging families to fill out a Meal Benefit Application anyway. The application data helps secure future funding for the program and unlocks additional benefits.
Why the application matters
Families whose income qualifies them for free or reduced-price meals under federal guidelines also qualify for Sun Bucks, a summer grocery benefit. Newsweek reported on May 27 that the program provides $120 per school-age child to cover food costs when school is not in session. Massachusetts is a confirmed participating state.
Households already receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR), or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits do not need to submit an application. Their children are automatically eligible for free meals.
How to apply
Only one application covers all children in a household. Forms are available at each school's front office, on the district website, at the Central Office at 173 Bedford St. in Lexington, or online at myschoolapps.com.
Jillian Coene, the district's determining official, reviews applications and decides eligibility. She can be reached at 781-861-2580, ext. 68062, or [email protected].
Families can apply at any time during the school year. If a household member loses a job or the household grows, families should contact the school. Those changes could push income below federal thresholds and make children newly eligible.
