There has been a long lasting debate as to whether school lunch should be free or if it should be paid for. At this school, lunch is $3.50 and additional items can be up to 3 dollars. In New York State, lunch can be free, the prices can be reduced, or the lunch could be full price. It all depends on your parents income. The families are responsible for providing the money for the children’s lunch each day they get it. According to usda.gov, if the household income is at or below 130 percent of the Federal poverty line can receive a free lunch. If it’s between 130 and 185 percent of the Federal poverty line can receive a reduced-price lunch. Above 185 percent of the Federal poverty line can receive a low-cost, full-price lunch.The federal poverty line varies based on the number of people in the household. Baldwin High School follows these guidelines as well. However, this system is not the best since some parents still struggle even with this income. It can also contribute to mental issues and bullying in the school itself. Students can be tormented because they don’t have the funds to buy school lunch. Students shouldn’t have to be embarrassed because of something they have no control over. Students can also get really sick if they don’t eat lunch because of money issues. Schools in other states have completely free lunch so it’s not unheard of. California has a statewide free school meals program where students get free breakfast and lunch. The meals are served regardless of the household income. This could be a step to help students feel safe in school and to help them be less stressed and more healthy. In New York State, The Department Of Education has control over the meal programs of schools. This doesn’t mean we can’t be informed thoroughly to advocate for free lunch for all in the future.

Click here to find out about Baldwin’s Free & Reduced lunch programs