We are pleased to announce that City of Columbia and Mt. Pleasant Schools will be participating in Community Eligibility Provision (CEP). The schools are as follows: Baker Elementary, Brown Elementary, Highland Park Elementary, Howell Elementary, Mt. Pleasant Elementary, Riverside Elementary, Woodard Elementary, Cox Middle, Mt. Pleasant Middle, Central High, Northfield Academy and Mt. Pleasant High.

What does CEP mean for my child(ren) who attends one of the schools listed above? In a CEP school, all students receive a nutritious breakfast and lunch at no cost, regardless of family income.

What is a meal? A meal must include a fruit or vegetable, then the choice of meat, grain, milk and fruit or vegetable (the opposite of the first choice). Students can decline two of the five items at lunch but must have a fruit or vegetable. Students can decline one item at breakfast but need to have a fruit or vegetable on their tray.

What if my child changes schools? Your child is eligible for free meals at the school where he/she is currently enrolled. If he/she eats meals at or transfers to a non-CEP school during the 2024-25 school year, you may be responsible for meal charges. Please contact the School Nutrition office at 931-388-8403, #8131, #8135, #8136 to verify if you need to submit a meal application.

Why is my school requesting financial information? The information you provide will help ensure that your child continues to have access to the level of resources he/she currently has at school. MEAL APPLICATIONS are still required as they ensure eligibility for Fee Waivers and the Summer EBT program.

How will this information be protected? In keeping with current practices, all information provided is private and confidential as required by state and federal statutes.

School Nutrition is excited about participating in the CEP for the selected schools and we continue our pledge to provide nutritious and delicious meals

If you have any questions about the CEP, please contact Brian Parkhurst at 931-388-8403 #8135