In a major step toward supporting student health and academic success, the State of Texas has expanded free school meals to include students who qualify for reduced-price meals. This renewal provides state funding to cover the cost of both breakfast and lunch for these students for the 2025-2026 school year.
Previously, families who qualified for reduced-price meals paid a small fee for each meal. Thanks to this new funding, those students now receive breakfast and lunch at no charge—removing a financial barrier and ensuring more Texas students have access to healthy school meals every day.
This investment reflects Texas' commitment to fueling student success through nutrition and is expected to increase meal participation and reduce food insecurity across the state.
Families are encouraged to submit a meal benefits application each school year to determine eligibility.
To apply, visit www.kisd.us/frmealapp or the SchoolCafe app.
Meal Benefits Application
The application will determine a child’s eligibility for free and reduced-price meals and may assist in the determination of eligibility for other state or federal benefits. Only one application needs to be completed per household. Schools will notify the household of the child’s eligibility. The Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) administers school nutrition programs in Texas and offers an eligibility calculator at www.SquareMeals.org/ProgramEligibility.