School Nutrition Services (SNS) Research

Publication: Sage Journals

Date Published: January 2024

Reference: 

Domina, T., Clark, L., Radsky, V., & Bhaskar, R. (2024). 
There Is Such a Thing as a Free Lunch: School Meals, Stigma, and 
Student Discipline. American Educational Research Journal, 61(2), 287-327.
https://doi.org/10.3102/00028312231222266

Key Takeaways: The CEP or Community Eligibility Provision allows free school meals to all students regardless of household income, for families to alleviate stigma. This resulted in reduced suspension rates for low-income families, previously receiving free or reduced-price meals, and Hispanic students. Removed visible markers often identified students receiving subsidized meals, reducing stigma, and potential negative impact on student behaviors, the reduction of stigma and disciplinary incidence led to a positive school environment.

#SchoolMealPrograms