The South Euclid-Lyndhurst School District has announced that all students will receive free breakfast and lunch regardless of income. According to a district news release, the new program is part of the Community Eligibility Provision of the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program and all students will be automatically enrolled. “We’re thrilled to provide free breakfast and lunch for all of our students,” Superintendent Dominick Kaple said. “Ensuring every child is well-nourished means they can focus on what truly matters — their education. This program is a game changer for our families, removing a barrier to student success and promoting equality across our district. “We are proud to offer this opportunity to our community and look forward to the positive impact it will have on both the well-being and academic achievement of our students.” The CEP is a free program for eligible public school districts. Districts must apply through the state, which involves calculating the percentage of students who are identified as eligible for school meals for any reason other than a free and reduced student meal application. If the percentage is 25 percent or higher, the district is eligible. Participating schools will be partially reimbursed for each meal served. According to the release, the CEP also eliminates the stigma associated with free or reduced-price meals, promoting equality and fostering a supportive atmosphere for all students. The South Euclid-Lyndhurst Schools food services department is adjusting inventory and ordering processes to prepare for the anticipated increase in demand. Meal charges will end on Oct. 7. The free meal will be the set meal for each day, although additional items will still be available for purchase.