School Launches Free Lunch Program to Combat Student Hunger

During a recent government meeting, discussions highlighted the importance of the after-school supper program at RA Long High School, which provides free meals to students on weekdays. The program, running from 2:20 PM to just before 3 PM, aims to support high school students involved in sports or those who face challenging home situations. Currently, the program is underutilized, with only a few middle school students from Monticello participating, despite its availability to all students in the area.

Brooklyn, a student representative, emphasized the need for better promotion of the program, suggesting that announcements and posters could inform more students about the food assistance available. Many students walk home and may not have access to food until late in the evening, making this program crucial for their well-being.

The meeting also touched on the potential expansion of the program to Mark Morris High School, where similar needs exist. While the current program is based on free and reduced lunch qualifications, there is interest in exploring funding options to extend these services to more students in need.

In addition to the lunch program discussions, Paige Wirtz, a student representative from Mark Morris, provided updates on school activities, including the recent PSAT testing and upcoming ASVAB tests, which offer students alternative pathways to graduation. She also reported on the positive atmosphere of recent parent-teacher conferences and the success of fall sports teams, highlighting the community's engagement in school events.

The meeting underscored the importance of addressing food insecurity among students and fostering connections between schools and families to enhance student support systems.