Column: Wooster City Schools to provide free breakfast and lunch for all students

Dear Wooster community,

It’s hard to believe we’re already a month into the new school year — and what a great start it’s been! As students and staff settle into their routines, I’m excited to share good news for our families. During the 2025-26 school year, every student in the Wooster City School District will receive free breakfast and lunch daily through the Community Eligibility Provision.

We know that when kids have access to nutritious food, they’re better able to focus, learn and succeed. This initiative, part of the National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs, allows us to serve healthy meals at no additional cost to families.

Although all students will automatically receive free meals, I want to emphasize the importance of still completing a household income form. The information gathered helps the district determine eligibility for potential school fee reductions and other supports for our families. It also plays a key role in keeping Wooster eligible for CEP in future years.

While this program prevents new meal debt, it doesn’t erase existing balances. Families may continue submitting payments for any outstanding amounts, and we’ll provide additional reminders throughout the school year. Information for submitting online payments and other important updates can be found on our website.

I’m grateful for our food service department and the staff who ensure students are cared for daily. Thanks to their efforts, every child in our district can walk into school knowing a healthy breakfast and lunch are waiting.

As always, thank you for your continued support of Wooster City Schools. Here’s to a great year ahead!

Gabe Tudor is superintendent of Wooster City Schools.