In 2026, the Scarsdale School District conducted a survey which revealed that 60% of parents were dissatisfied with the current food service program at their children's schools. This dissatisfaction highlights a pressing need for change to ensure that all students can focus on learning without the worry of hunger.

Currently, the Scarsdale School District does not participate in the New York State National School Lunch Program (NSLP), missing out on a vital opportunity to provide free lunches to students. Joining the NSLP would benefit thousands of families in our community, ensuring that every child receives a healthy meal every day, fundamentally enhancing their ability to learn, grow, and succeed.

Participating in the NSLP aligns with New York State's recent initiative that encourages all districts to provide free lunches for their students. By joining this program, Scarsdale School District would not only improve student satisfaction with meals but also promote equitable access to education—a key objective we all strive for.

Research consistently shows that students who have access to healthy meals daily perform better academically, exhibit fewer behavioral issues, and are more likely to graduate. The benefits are irrefutable, yet our district has not yet taken advantage of this initiative.

Therefore, we urge the Scarsdale School Board and district administrators to prioritize the well-being and educational success of our children by joining the NSLP. This program is fully funded by federal and state dollars, meaning the transition would require minimal additional resources from the district while bringing substantial benefits.