Student grabs lunch from the lunch line

Moorhead Area Public Schools (MAPS) Food and Nutrition Services has been operating since 2020 under USDA waivers that allowed the district to serve meals to students at no cost to them. This waiver is set to expire at the end of the 21-22 school year. If it is not extended, MAPS Food and Nutrition Services will be expected to return to charging full priced meals next school year. 

What should families do to prepare for this? 

Families will need to complete an Application for Educational Benefits form in order to qualify for free or reduced meals for next school year. Families who do not qualify will need to pay for school meals. The upcoming 22-23 meal prices will be approved by the school board in June 2022 and will be updated to the district website. These applications need to be completed every year, but current benefits will remain until October 18, 2022. The 2022-23 Application for Educational Benefits will be available after July 1st and will be mailed to families when available. 

Moorhead Area Public Schools encourages all families to complete the Application for Educational Benefits, as there are many more benefits available to families and schools. 

  • Activities/Sports Fees are reduced or waived for qualified students. 
  • College Applications/Standardized Tests fees may be reduced or waived for qualified students. 
  • School funding is dependent on the Free/Reduced Rate. This often impacts the district’s ability to receive grant funding as well.  

 Continue to follow the district app, website and social media for the most up to date information regarding the extension of waivers. Any questions or concerns can be directed to the MAPS Food and Nutrition Services department at 218-284-3324 or by emailing Ashley Schneider at ashleyschneider@moorheadschools.org.