'It's a basic need': Wisconsin state superintendent proposes free meals in schools for 2025-2027 budget

 

KENOSHA, Wis. (CBS 58) — A new proposal could put Wisconsin in a small group of states that would provide free school lunches to all students.

Wisconsin State Superintendent Dr. Jill Underly is calling for universal free meals in Wisconsin schools as part of her 2025-2027 biennial budget request.

Underly made the announcement Friday at the Kenosha Unified School District, a Wisconsin district that already provides free meals to all students under a community eligibility program.

"Today I call on our state to act and ensure that no Wisconsin student goes hungry," Underly said.

The $294 million proposal would allow for daily nutritious breakfast and lunch for all students at no cost.

It would also encourage districts to buy from local farmers and producers.

In a Department of Public Instruction survey last year, one in four Wisconsin high school students reported hunger due to lack of food at home.

"This is unacceptable," Underly said. "Food is one of the most basic needs of humans, and yet, many Wisconsin kids tell us that they don't know when or if they will have their next meal."

USDA waivers allowed for free lunches across the country during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Matt Stienstra with Feeding America (Eastern Wisconsin) says the need is still crucial.

"Right now, our food pantry system is experiencing the highest demand that they have seen since the peak of the pandemic," he said on Friday.

Underly's proposal would replace income-based free or reduced lunch programs, which only benefit certain students.

"It's very cumbersome. To qualify, families have to complete paperwork, and it's rather invasive," she explained.

"Right now, a family of four that is making $41,000 a year does not qualify for free meals," Stienstra said.

Underly said research shows free meals increase attendance, and well-nourished students perform better in the classroom.

"Truly, it's a basic need. Many other states have been successful in implementing it as well, and I feel like there's momentum," she said.

Eight states, including Minnesota and Michigan, currently provide universal free school meals.

If adopted, Underly said the policy could go into effect in Wisconsin by next fall.

Click here to read the full DPI press release.