For the 2020-2021 School Year:
As Leander ISD Child Nutrition Services has transitioned to free breakfast and lunch meals to all students for the 20/21 school year, low-cost meals are no longer being served at this time.
Prior to the transition to this new meal program, Leander ISD Child Nutrition Services provided low-cost meals. Leander ISD understands situations may arise that prevent students from having available funds to purchase a meal. Because of this, the district allowed a grace period so that students could continue to enjoy a hot meal until funds could be deposited. This grace period was the equivalent of the cost of five lunch meals, or $15 for elementary students and $16 for middle and high school students.
Once a student had reached the negative balance of either $15 for elementary students or $16 for middle and high school students, the district would provide a low-cost meal to the student until funds were replenished.
What is a low cost meal?
A low-cost meal includes a pre-determined entrée. Low-cost meal entrees generally rotate monthly and may include items such as a sun butter and jelly or cheese sandwich, which will also be included on the menu as a choice for all students. The student would then choose their side items from a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as a white or chocolate milk.
While there will be no charge to the student for a low-cost meal, Leander ISD will cover the costs associated with each meal through the general fund at the end of each school year. In order to keep costs down, LISD asks that families do their best to either deposit funds into their student’s meal account as quickly as possible, or provide their child with a sack lunch when possible.
If there is a financial need, please consider applying for the free or reduced price meal program by visiting the MealTime website, downloading a paper application under Forms and Applications below, or picking up a paper application at any campus or the Child Nutrition Services office.
If you have any questions regarding Child Nutrition Services, the low-cost meal, or the free or reduced price meal program, please call 512-570-0670, or reach out via Let’s Talk!