Chattooga County Schools to Offer Free Breakfast and Lunch to All Students in 2026–2027

Every student in the Chattooga County School District will eat breakfast and lunch at no cost during the 2026–2027 school year, the district announced.

The change is made possible through the district’s participation in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP), a federal program administered through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs. Because of CEP, families will not have to fill out a meal application this year.

District officials say the move is about more than convenience — it’s about making sure every student starts the day ready to learn.

“Offering free meals to all students removes barriers, supports stronger academic performance, and ensures that no student faces stigma related to meal access,” the district said in its announcement. “We are proud to offer this program, which supports student success.”

Families Still Asked to Complete a Survey

While no meal application is required, the district is asking families to fill out a short, confidential survey. That survey plays a key role in determining how much funding the district receives from supplemental programs, including:

• The Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Grant
• After-School Snacks
• Seamless Summer Options

District officials emphasized that without family participation in the survey, the school system cannot maximize the resources available to it. A letter with more details, including instructions for completing the survey, will be sent home at a later date.

Who to Contact

Families with questions can reach the school nutrition department at 706-859-3054.

Source: Chattooga County School District