EFDA Charge and Collection of Payment for School Meals

Charge and Collection of Payment for School Meals

The purpose of this policy is to allow children to receive the nutrition they need to stay focused during the school day, minimize identification of children with insufficient funds to pay for school meals, and maintain the financial integrity of the nonprofit school food service account. The School Committee, in partnership with the Food Service department, believes that all children, regardless of eligibility status, deserve equal access to healthy and nutritious food, while being treated with respect and dignity.

Therefore, the schools will provide at least one meal per day for every student. Depriving students of meals or utilizing alternative meals because of inability to pay are practices that will not be used, as they can be degrading. A la carte items are available for purchase only when students have money on account. All matters concerning collection of debt will be handled at the adult level, allowing children to remain focused on academic success.

As with any institution, the school system has an obligation to be fiscally accountable and cost effective. The Food Service Director and building and central office administrators will take all reasonable measures to collect money owed by the parents or guardians of students with negative balances.

Legal References:

● M.G.L. Chapter 71, Section 72 - Sale of Lunches

● M.G.L. Chapter 44, Section 69 - Municipal or district services, fees or charges; insufficient funds checks; penalty

Cross References:

● Charge and Collection of Payment for School Meals Procedures

● Lunch Account Balances at Year-End

Approved: August 7, 2017 by School Committee