Page • Food and Nutrition Services

Dear Elementary School Families,

We are writing to inform you of an important change to our school meal program beginning in the 2026–2027 school year.

Over the past several years, our school has been able to provide breakfast and lunch meals to all students at no cost through the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP). CEP eligibility is determined through a federal application process that occurs every four years. Unfortunately, our school did not qualify for CEP for the upcoming cycle.

As a result, beginning in the 2026–2027 school year, meals will no longer automatically be free for all students. Families will need to complete a Free and Reduced-Price Meal Application to determine eligibility for meal benefits.

Please note:

Families who qualify for programs such as SNAP may be directly certified for free meal benefits and will not need to complete an application.
Families who are not directly certified should complete and return the application as soon as possible once forms become available.
Completing the application is important, as meal eligibility may also help support additional school programs and services.

Applications and additional information will be sent to families before the start of the school year. We encourage all families to review the information carefully and submit forms promptly.

The online application is now available using the following link: Application for Free and Reduced-Price Meals

We understand this change may bring questions, and we are committed to helping families through the process. If you need assistance or have questions regarding meal applications or eligibility, please contact Loren Dunk or Kristi Kasuske at 406 965 2231 or or

Thank you for your understanding and continued support.

Sincerely,

Loren Dunk, Superintendent
Vaughn Elementary School