This post was created on 07/14/2025.

For the past several years, all Pasco County Schools have been part of a federal program called the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP). This program has allowed us to offer free breakfast and lunch to all students, regardless of income.

However, due to rising food costs and changes in federal legislation, our district will be making some changes starting with the 2025–2026 school year.

Next year, we will move to a hybrid model:

• Schools in high-poverty areas will continue offering free meals to all students through the CEP program.
• All other schools will return to the traditional meal program, where families will need to fill out Free and Reduced-Price Meal Applications to see if their child qualifies for free or discounted meals.

Below are helpful links to guide you:

• CEP & Non-CEP School List
• Food and Nutrition Services FAQ
• Free and Reduced Meal Application FAQ
• Food and Nutrition Department Website

If you have questions, please contact us through Let’s Talk: School Meals. We’re happy to help.

We truly value the opportunity to support your child’s health and learning and remain committed to ensuring that every student has access to nutritious meals.

Sincerely,

Pasco County Schools