Money should not limit student opportunities: The Free and Reduced Lunch application provides important cost savings for qualifying families

Schools in Colorado are underfunded by the state and fees support our programming, however we never want a student to be sidelined because of financial barriers. 

Ensuring every student has the opportunity to fully participate in school life is at the heart of our work as a Board. Reducing and eliminating fees is one important way we’re increasing access to opportunities.

To this end, at the request of the Board, BVSD has waived the following fees for families who cannot afford them:

• Academic Fees
  We’ve worked to reduce academic fees and make them consistent across schools. Sometimes schools assess fees to pay for specific consumable supplies or experiences that are deemed necessary for instruction. Under state law and Board Policy JN, academic fees should not prevent a student from taking a class and School Principals can waive fees for those who cannot afford them.
   
• Breakfast and Lunch
  Currently, breakfast and lunch are offered free of charge to all students in our district, but due to a shortfall in state funding this may end mid-year. Know that in BVSD students in need will never go hungry. Families who qualify and complete the Free and Reduced Lunch application will continue to receive free meals. With family consent, BVSD can use this application information to waive other School District fees.
   
• Athletic and Activity Fees
  We believe that participation in extra-curricular activities, makes our students stronger academically, socially-emotionally and prepares them for life after school. In athletics and activities, fees are used to help pay for uniforms, equipment and competitions. As with academic fees, we can waive athletic fees for those who cannot afford them.

Let us know if you need help, it will remain confidential

While it is important that we know when a student needs assistance – we are committed to ensuring that this information is kept confidential and that families are treated equitably.

For those who qualify, the best and easiest way to have eligibility for fee waivers established  is by applying for the Free and Reduced Price School Meal (FRL) program and, again, signing the consent to permit sharing of this information with certain School or District leaders.

Completing the FRL application can provide your family with access to a variety of additional services and reduced fees, as well as impact funding for your school. Learn more and see if your family qualifies on the Food Services department’s Free and Reduced-Price School Meals website.

Apply Now to receive free and reduced-price school meals and other savings

We know that some families may experience financial barriers to accessing School District programs and not qualify for FRL. Additionally, some families may be concerned about providing their information to the federal government. In these cases, a student or parent/guardian is encouraged to speak with their school administrator or coach about the need for financial assistance. BVSD will never discuss a student or family’s financial situation outside of the administrators who handle fees, so you can feel secure reaching out to our staff.

Help available for Free & Reduced Price School Meal program applications and enrollment

Applying for the Free & Reduced Price School Meal program is fast, easy, and secure. Even if you think you may not qualify, we encourage you to submit the form, especially if your financial situation has changed recently. 

For questions or support with applying, contact Lola Campos at dolores.campos-herzf@bvsd.org. She is available for in-person support Monday-Friday, 7 AM - 3 PM at the Culinary Center (view map) at 6500 Arapahoe Rd Building C, Boulder, CO 80305.