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Universal Free Meal Schools

What is the Federal Community Eligibility Provision?

In the 2024-2025 school year (through the 2026-2027 school year), Ridgecrest Elementary will be participating in a federal program called the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP). The CEP program allows all students enrolled at Ridgecrest to receive breakfast and lunch at no charge.

Why only at Ridgecrest? Ridgecrest is the only school in the District that has a high enough percentage of students who currently qualify for free meals based on enrollment in other benefit programs like SNAP and TANF.

What is Washington State House Bill 1238?

House Bill 1238 passed the Washington State legislature in 2023, extending free meals to all students at elementary schools where over 30% of the students qualified for free or reduced-price meals by October 31st of the prior school year.

Based on this criteria, the following schools will be providing free breakfast and lunch to all students for the 2024-2025 school year: 

  • Briarcrest Elementary
  • Echo Lake Elementary
  • Meridian Park Elementary
  • Parkwood Elementary

What are the benefits of CEP and House Bill 1238?

  • All students receive the benefits of nutritious school meals at no charge

  • Eliminates unpaid meal charges

  • Minimizes stigma

Forms and Links

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to complete the regular meal application?

  • Ridgecrest - All households should still complete a meal application. Application approvals impact the funding that is received from the state government. Without this information, Ridgecrest Elementary could lose important state funding for educational programs that our students are entitled to.

  • House Bill 1238 schools - Households should still complete a meal application if their income meets guidelines. Students may be eligible for additional fee discounts and waivers for other school programs. 

If my student moves to another elementary school within the district, will they still receive free meals?

They will only get free meals if they qualify through other methods:

  • Based on income through the meal application process

  • Enrollment in SNAP, TANF, or some Medicaid programs

  • Certified as McKinney Vento (homeless) by school representative

Can my student still buy extras and snacks at school?

A la carte items (snacks, extra milk/juice, second entrees) will be available for purchase with accounts that have funds available on them or with cash.

Can my student still bring their lunch from home?

Yes. Students are not required to eat the meal provided at school. Milk and juice will be available for purchase.