Marshfield R-I School District

Free and Reduced Price Meals Program – Marshfield R-I School District
The Marshfield R-I School District offers free or reduced-price meals for eligible students through the National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs. Families can apply for meal benefits via the parent portal each school year. If a family member becomes unemployed or the household size changes, a new application with updated information can be submitted. Paper applications are also available at all school offices.

Dear Parent/Guardian,
Healthy meals are essential for students to succeed. The Marshfield R-I School District provides nutritious meals every day, and your children may qualify for free or reduced-price meals. Below are some common questions to help guide you through the application process:

Who is eligible for free or reduced-price meals?

• Children in households receiving SNAP, TANF, or FDPIR benefits.
• Foster children under the care of a foster agency or court.
• Children in the Head Start program.
• Children who are homeless, runaway, or migrant.
• Families meeting federal income eligibility guidelines.

How do I know if my children qualify as homeless, migrant, or runaway?
If your family lacks a permanent address, is staying in temporary housing, relocates seasonally, or includes children who have left a prior household, contact Asst. Superintendent Josh Hume at (417) 859-2120.

Do I need a separate application for each child?
No, use one application for all students in your household. Ensure the form is complete and return it to: Marshfield R-I School District, 170 State Hwy DD, Marshfield, MO 65706.

I received a letter stating my children are already approved for free meals. Do I still need to apply?
No, but check the letter to ensure all eligible children are listed. If any are missing, contact Kristy Jordan at (417) 859-2120 or kristy.jordan@mjays.us.

My child was approved for free meals last year. Do I need to reapply?
Yes, you must submit a new application each school year unless you've been notified otherwise.

Does receiving WIC benefits qualify my children for free meals?
Children in households participating in WIC may qualify. Please complete and submit an application.

Will the information I provide be verified?
Yes, we may ask for written proof of household income.

Can I apply later if my situation changes?
Yes, you can apply at any time during the school year, especially if household income drops or a family member becomes unemployed.

What if I disagree with the school's decision on my application?
You can request a hearing by contacting Mike Henry, Superintendent, at Marshfield R-I Schools.

Can I apply if someone in my household is not a U.S. citizen?
Yes, U.S. citizenship is not required for eligibility.

What if my household income fluctuates?
Report your usual income. If you typically earn $1,000 monthly, report that amount even if you occasionally earn less.

What if some household members have no income?
If a member of your household has no income, write "0" in the relevant field.

We're a military family—do we report income differently?
Basic pay, cash bonuses, and cash allowances for off-base housing, food, or clothing should be reported as income. However, housing allowances from the Military Housing Privatization Initiative and combat pay from deployment are excluded.

What if there’s not enough space on the application?
List additional household members on a separate sheet of paper and attach it to the application.

Are there other assistance programs we might qualify for?
For help with SNAP or other assistance programs, contact your local assistance office or call 1-855-373-4636.

Can I apply online?
Yes! You can apply online via the parent portal at mjays.us. The online application requires the same information as the paper version. For assistance, contact Kristy Jordan at (417) 859-2120.

If you have any further questions, call (417) 859-2120.

Sincerely,
Mike Henry, Superintendent

USDA Non-Discrimination Statement
This institution is an equal-opportunity provider. For more details or to file a complaint, visit the USDA’s website or contact their offices using the information provided.