During budget negotiations last year, I spoke on the floor of the Senate advocating universal school meals’ inclusion in the budget. For reasons that still baffle me, this did not make it into
the final budget. So I was thrilled to see the Governor get behind Universal School Meals this year and look forward to making sure no student goes hungry – and all families save over $1000 per year in food costs.
As a result of changes to how state and federal dollars are calculated for school nutrition,the large majority of school districts in Orange County are able to provide free breakfast and lunch to all students, regardless of a family’s income. While this is encouraging, there’s still much work to be done to ensure that all learners have what they need to thrive in the classroom. Right here in Orange County there are four districts – Minisink Valley, Goshen, Warwick Valley, and Cornwall – that are not yet able to provide free meals to all students because they were ineligible under the framework passed in 2023. This is the year we finally close the gap.
Providing school meals is an investment in our children and communities. Free school meals have a positive impact on academic performance and discipline for all kids, regardless of income. Ensuring all of our children receive what they need for long-term success – including Universal Pre-K in every community, classroom temperatures conducive to learning, and needed nourishment freely available – has always, and will always, be a top priority for me.
While there should be nothing controversial about keeping kids safe and fed in school, I am prepared for any fight that will come our way.
