NATCHITOCHES, LA — Natchitoches Parish School Board is pleased to announce that all enrolled students will receive free breakfast and lunch every school day during the 2026–2027 academic year through the district's participation in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP).
The program eliminates barriers to student nutrition by removing the application process entirely. Parents and guardians are not required to complete meal benefit applications for their children. The only requirement for participation is enrollment in a Natchitoches Parish Public School.
NPSB Director of Child Nutrition, Shauna Hicks, states, "We are very pleased that all Natchitoches Parish students are now eligible to participate in the CEP program. Providing proper nutrition for our students fosters a positive learning environment and helps each child reach their full potential."
Program Details:
All enrolled students are eligible for free breakfast and lunch.
No applications or paperwork are required from families.
The program covers standard breakfast and lunch meals.
Students are still responsible for paying for additional meals, à la carte items, and other items available for purchase.
The Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) is a federal program that allows eligible school districts to provide free meals to all students without requiring individual household applications. This approach helps ensure consistent access to nutritious meals, supports student well-being, and removes barriers that may prevent students from receiving the nutrition they need to succeed.