Every student deserves access to nutritious meals that help them learn, grow, and thrive. Crowley ISD currently provides free breakfast to students, but lunch is not universally free. For families already managing the rising costs of groceries, housing, utilities, transportation, and other necessities, school lunch can become another financial burden.

This issue is especially important in Crowley ISD, where more than 75% of students are economically disadvantaged, according to district information filed with the Texas Education Agency. While economic disadvantage does not necessarily mean a student experiences food insecurity, this statistic highlights the financial challenges affecting many families within the district.

Providing universal free lunch would ensure that every Crowley ISD student has equal access to a meal during the school day, regardless of household income. It would also support families who may experience financial hardship but fall outside eligibility requirements for free meals.

Crowley ISD has already demonstrated its commitment to student nutrition by providing free breakfast to students. Expanding that commitment to include universal free lunch would further support equity, dignity, student well-being, and academic success throughout the district.

This petition calls on the Crowley ISD Board of Trustees, Superintendent, and district administration to explore available federal and state programs, district resources, grants, community partnerships, and other sustainable funding opportunities to make free lunch available to every student.

Every child deserves the opportunity to learn without hunger becoming a barrier. Sign this petition to support universal free lunch for every Crowley ISD student and help make access to nutritious school meals equitable for all.