Fauquier County Public Schools (FCPS) has announced its policy detailing the eligibility and procedures for providing free or reduced-price meals to students through the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs.
According to FCPS, the program’s eligibility is determined by household size and income, participation in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), or specific circumstances such as homelessness, foster care, or migrant status. Applications are available at schools, the central office, and online. Households must submit one completed form per year, listing household members, income, and social security information as required. Eligibility is reviewed by school officials with options to appeal decisions. The program complies with federal civil rights laws, offering alternative formats and complaint procedures for non-discrimination.
FCPS states that household income, size, and participation in assistance programs are used to determine eligibility for free or reduced-price meals. Forms are distributed to all households and available online. Applications must be complete and signed before school nutrition staff can review and approve eligibility. SNAP and TANF households may automatically qualify, while other households need to provide detailed income and household information. Eligibility can be updated during the school year if circumstances change, with families having the option to appeal decisions.
The program adheres to federal civil rights requirements prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or retaliation. Information is available in multiple languages and accessible formats with support through local agencies or the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) TARGET Center. Complaints of discrimination can be submitted using Form AD-3027 or in writing to the USDA with detailed information about the alleged violation.
FCPS serves a primarily rural area of about 650 square miles near Washington D.C., and Richmond with a population of around 68,000. It operates 11 elementary schools, 5 middle schools, 3 high schools, and 1 alternative learning school. The district’s mission is “to develop creative, confident, and knowledgeable citizens who are globally competitive by cultivating all learners’ potential.” Governed by a five-member School Board under Superintendent Dr. Major Warner, FCPS follows Virginia statutes and Board of Education regulations to set policies that support student success.
