: Education leaders have expressed worry over proposed federal changes that could raise the threshold for free meal eligibility, potentially disqualifying numerous Iowa schools from the CEP program. Free or reduced-price lunch eligibility in Iowa
: Incomes between 130% and 185% of the FPL. Iowa Reduced Lunch Statistics
: Students also qualify if their household receives SNAP or Medicaid benefits, or if they are in foster care. : Education leaders have expressed worry over proposed
During the 2023-2024 school year, approximately of Iowa students were eligible for free or reduced-price lunch . This statistic has remained steady over the last decade, generally fluctuating between 40% and 43%. Eligibility and Impact During the 2023-2024 school year, approximately of Iowa
Eligibility is primarily determined by household income relative to the federal poverty level (FPL): : Incomes at or below 130% of the FPL.