Schools within SCSD#2 District will provide complimentary breakfast and lunch services for students.
Sheridan County School District No. 2 (SCSD#2) has announced its participation in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) program, effective July 14, 2022. This initiative, designed to support schools and communities, offers a range of benefits that aim to promote academic success through proper nutrition and foster a more inclusive environment.
The CEP program is set to directly contribute to a conducive learning environment for all students. By providing free meals to all students, it encourages increased participation in school meal programs, leading to better nutrition and health outcomes. This, in turn, supports academic success, as well-fed students are better able to concentrate, retain information, and perform at their best.
One of the key advantages of the CEP program is its ability to eliminate the stigma associated with receiving free or reduced-price meals. By offering free meals to all students, regardless of their economic status, the program helps create a more inclusive and equitable school environment. This is particularly beneficial for high-poverty schools and districts, as it ensures that all students have access to meals without the need for individual applications.
The SCSD#2's eligibility for the CEP program is based on an Identified Student Percentage (ISP) of 35.26% for their main elementary schools (representing 1,716 students) and 39.13% for Story Elementary (23 students). This exceeds the federal requirement of 25%, which is based on the number of students directly certified for free meals through programs like SNAP, FDPIR, Medicaid, or identified as foster, homeless, or runaway.
The district views participation in the CEP program as a demonstration of their unwavering commitment to the educational success and health of every child. By having nourished students who are focusing on learning, SCSD#2 is investing in the next generation of their community.
The participating schools in the CEP program include Henry A. Coffeen, Highland Park, Woodland Park, Meadowlark, Sagebrush, The Wright Place, John C. Schiffer Collaborative School, and Story Elementary. All students in these schools will eat together, promoting a sense of community and reducing any potential stigma associated with free or reduced-price meals.
The CEP program aligns with SCSD#2's values, as it addresses the issue of hunger as a barrier to learning, ensuring that every student is nourished and ready to focus on their studies. The district looks forward to the positive impact the CEP program will have on their students, families, and the broader Sheridan area.
In summary, the CEP program is a vital part of the fabric of Sheridan, as stated by district superintendent Finney. It not only supports the well-being of students but also enhances school operations and fosters a positive school environment. By simplifying the meal service process, it allows schools to focus on providing meals rather than managing meal applications, which can help implement innovative breakfast models. The SCSD#2's participation in the CEP program is a testament to their deep connection to the community and their understanding of its needs. Starting from July 1, 2025, and continuing for the next four school years through June 30, 2029, all students at participating SCSD#2 schools will receive nutritious meals at no cost.
The CEP program's impact extends beyond meal provisions, as it promotes health-and-wellness by ensuring better nutrition for all students, leading to academic success. The district's participation in the program also supports education-and-self-development by creating a more inclusive environment that reduces stigma. This program is part of SCSD#2's broader commitment to providing a conducive learning environment through initiatives like fitness-and-exercise programs and general-news coverage that advocates for student well-being.
