GULFPORT, MS — The Gulfport School District is announcing an important change to its school meal program. Beginning with the 2025–2026 school year, the district will return to the pre-COVID application-based system for determining student eligibility for free or reduced-price meals. This transition took effect June 4, 2025, following the conclusion of the district’s participation in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) program.
This change is the result of a reduction in federal funding, which previously allowed schools to offer no-cost meals to all students regardless of income through the CEP program during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
“With the expiration of pandemic-era funding, we are returning to the traditional system used before COVID-19, where families must apply to determine eligibility for free or reduced-price meals,” said Melissa Olsen, RD, Director of Child Nutrition for Gulfport School District. “We understand this shift may affect some households, and our team is ready to assist every step of the way.”
Families will now be required to complete and submit a meal benefits application for the upcoming school year. All families are strongly encouraged to apply—even if they are unsure of their eligibility—to ensure that students who qualify continue receiving meal support.
The Gulfport Child Nutrition Department is available to support families through this transition by providing information, answering questions, and helping with the application process. More details and application materials will be distributed in the coming weeks.
Despite these changes, the district remains committed to providing nutritious meals and supporting student well-being across all campuses.
The Gulfport School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, or disability in the provision of educational programs and services or employment opportunities or benefits. The following office has been designated to handle inquiries and complaints regarding the non-discrimination policies of the above mentioned entities. - Dr. Michael Tatum, Assistant Superintendent Gulfport School District
For media inquiries, please contact:
Public Relations Office
Gulfport School District
Phone: (228)-865-4600