Good news, Ottumwa families! Every Ottumwa Community School District student will receive FREE breakfast and lunch during the 2026-27 school year.
This is the fifth consecutive year Ottumwa Schools has provided free meals to all students because no child should have to worry about being hungry at school.
The Community Eligibility Provision allows eligible school districts to provide nutritious meals to every enrolled student, ensuring children have access to healthy meals that support learning, growth, and academic success.
This renewal allows us to continue removing barriers for families while ensuring every student has access to healthy, nutritious meals each school day.
Providing free meals to all enrolled students helps:
- Support student health and well-being.
- Improve classroom focus and academic performance.
- Reduce financial burdens on families.
- Ensure every child has the nutrition they need to succeed.
The Ottumwa Community School District remains committed to creating an environment where every student can thrive, and the Food & Nutrition Department is proud to continue serving healthy, delicious meals each school day.
“Providing breakfast and lunch at no cost to every student removes a barrier for families,
supports student well-being, and helps ensure every child has what they need to succeed each day. We offer the best variety of choices daily," said Food & Nutrition Services Director Yvonne Johnson.
