National School Lunch Program

The department participates in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and USDA Donated Commodities/Food Distribution programs at the elementary schools. The federal government administers these programs. The Texas Department of Agriculture is responsible for program operations in the state.

The NSLP guidelines, for example, require a specific menu that must be followed. Also, needy children must be served at reduced-price rates or for free.

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) offers available foods to each school district throughout the state for use in the Child Nutrition Programs. The purpose is to assist districts with the food budget and the farmer with surplus. Donated foods may change in variety from time to time and/or according to market conditions.

The high school and middle school cafeterias do not operate under the NSLP.