Applications are now open for 2022-23 Educational Benefits
USDA funding for free school lunches expires for the 2022-23 school year. Families will have to complete the educational benefits application to continue receiving free or reduced school lunches for the coming school year.
All families in the district must complete the educational benefits application (or opt out), regardless of income or eligibility. Applications for Educational Benefits are approved annually. To ensure a smooth transition of benefits, you will need to reapply for 2022-23 before the school year begins.
Completing or opting out of an application is easy and confidential. Choose one of four easy ways to apply or opt out:
- Apply or Opt Out online at www.schoolcafe.com; or
- Download and print a paper application (below) to complete or opt out and then submit to your school; or
- Pick-up a paper application at your student’s school; or
- Call our nutrition services office at (651) 457-9429 to complete your application over the phone
You can download the following paper applications:
- 2022-23 Applications for Educational Benefits
- Solicitud de Beneficios Educativos - Año escolar 2022-23
You may also pick up a copy at any school office, the District Office, or during open house/orientation days. Completed forms can be mailed to: 104 5th Avenue So., South St. Paul, MN 55075 or fax to the Nutrition Services office at (651) 457-9485.
Hmong and Somali applications are available on School Cafe or in-person by request.
Families who qualify will also receive other educational benefits such as:
- Amazon discounted Prime memberships
- Internet Essentials affordable internet at home program
- Minnesota Energy assistance
- A variety of wireless lifeline assistance programs
- Minnesota power payment assistance programs
- Transit Assistance Program (TAP)
- Children's Theater Company ACT Pass program
- Minnesota Children's Museum "All Play" Membership
- Minnesota Historical Society limited income program
- Minnesota Zoo free to explore program
- Science Museum of Minnesota
- The Works Museum
- YMCA discounted memberships