AUSTIN—Austin ISD provides free and reduced meals to those eligible for the National School Lunch and Breakfast Program.

 Who is eligible?

• Children of all ages whose household income is at or below the criteria levels shown on the application.
• Foster children who are the legal responsibility of a welfare agency or court regardless of the income of the household with whom they reside.
• Migrant and homeless children.

Applications for the National School Lunch and Breakfast Program will be sent to all student households and are available at every Austin school.  
 
To apply, households must fill out the application—only one application per family is needed—and return it to the school. An adult household member must sign the application, and applications may be submitted at any time during the school year. Assistance is also available for completing the application.  
 
“Every child goes through the cafeteria lines in the same manner, whether they are paying full price, the reduced price or receiving meals for free. Confidentiality is assured,” Food Services Director Chris Carrillo-Spano said.  
 
Ms. Carrillo-Spano reminds parents that a new application for free or reduced meals is required each year.
 
Under the provisions of the free and reduced-price meal policy, AISD Nutrition and Food Services staff will review applications and determine eligibility. Parents or guardians dissatisfied with the ruling of the official may wish to discuss the decision with the reviewing official on an informal basis.

Parents wishing to make a formal appeal for a hearing on the decision may make a request either orally or in writing to Chris Carrillo-Spano, Nutrition and Food Services Director, 3908 Avenue B, #212, Austin, Texas 78751.

For more information about free or reduced price meals, parents should call AISD Food Services at (512) 414-0251.  

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