Empower Students to Improve Communities
Nutrition & Lunch Program
2025-26 School Year Meals Information
Food Service Updates for the New School Year
Welcome to the new school year! As we begin another exciting academic year, we would like to extend our sincere thanks to the School Committee, Administration, students, and families for your continued support and partnership.
The Food Service Department remains committed to providing nutritious, high-quality meals to all CPS students while meeting the standards set by the National School Lunch Program (NSLP).
We are pleased to share that the Massachusetts legislature has made universal free breakfast and lunch permanent for all students attending schools that participate in the NSLP. You can learn more about what qualifies as a reimbursable meal
Although all students are eligible to receive free meals regardless of income, it is essential that families continue to complete and submit the Free and Reduced-Price Meal Application each year. Accurate and up-to-date eligibility information ensures that CPS receives the maximum amount of federal and state funding to support the school nutrition program.
The 2025–2026 application is available below.
When returning the Application, we also ask that you complete and return the Sharing Information with Other Programs form as well. If your student(s) qualify for free or reduced price meals, this allows us to share your information with other programs so that your student can receive additional benefits.
Additionally, students who qualify for free or reduced-price meals will automatically be enrolled in Sun Bucks (formerly known as Summer EBT). This program provides eligible families with grocery purchasing benefits during the summer months when school is not in session.
We are excited to share recent upgrades to our school kitchens, including:
- New Grab-and-Go refrigerators
- Fresh orange juice machines
- A new pizza oven
These enhancements are part of our ongoing effort to expand healthy menu options and improve the overall dining experience.
Please note the following important updates for the upcoming school year:
- Second Meals: Per NSLP guidelines, the cost of a second lunch must equal the state reimbursement rate. (The 2025–2026 is $4.74.)
- A la Carte Items: Milk, juice, and a la carte items are not included in the free meal program. Students must have a positive balance in their MySchoolBucks account to purchase these items. Instructions for creating or managing your account can be found [HERE].
We look forward to serving the students and families of Cohasset Public Schools in the year ahead and beyond.
Warm regards,
CPS Food Service Department
For more information please visit
Cohasset Public Schools Nutrition and Food Services website (external link)