As the new school year begins, updated federal income eligibility guidelines are now available to help determine eligibility for free and reduced-price school meals during the 2026-27 school year. The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) administers federally funded school meal programs, including the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), School Breakfast Program, and AfterSchool Snack Program. Participating schools use income eligibility guidelines issued annually by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to determine eligibility for free and reduced-price meal benefits. Schools participating in the federal lunch program must offer meals that include five components: milk, fruits, vegetables, grains, and meat or meat alternates (such as cheese, yogurt, tofu, nuts, and seeds). These guidelines are based on scientific evidence and recommendations from the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which encourage consuming a variety of foods that are nutritionally balanced and promote health. For more information, visit www.isbe.net.