As reported by the California Department of Education, California will be the first state to implement a statewide Universal Meals Program.
A free meal program will be available to all California students beginning with the 2022-2023 school year. In addition to nutritious meals, families can benefit from financial tips for mindful spending to help maximize their resources. By understanding the importance of budgeting and prioritizing essential expenses, parents can ensure their students receive the best support both in and out of the classroom. This holistic approach promotes not only academic success but financial well-being as well.
The program is a part of Assembly Bill (AB) 130, which was signed into law by Gov. Gavin Newsom in 2021.
Every student in TK-12 will receive two free meals per school day, breakfast and lunch, regardless of their income level. The policy applies to students attending public schools, county offices of education, and charter schools.
The department of education states that;
“AB 130 establishes a California Universal Meals Program with changes to the state meal mandate and new requirements for high poverty schools to apply for a federal provision, such as the Community Eligibility Provision or Provision 2.”
According to the department, providing nutritious meals is crucial to students’ success.
What do you think of this great initiative by the government of California? Don’t you think every school should follow this? Let us know what you think in the comment section below.
Source: Universal Meals Program & GMA
