Mesa school board approves renewal of school meal programs

By Connor Van Ligten
Mail

The Mesa Public Schools governing board voted 5-0 during its July 22 meeting to renew its agreement with the Arizona Department of Education to continue participation in school meal programs.

The agreement renewal will allow participation in the National School Lunch Program, School Breakfast Program, Special Milk Program, Summer Food Service Program and the At-Risk Afterschool Meals Component of the CACFP.

It also updates the positions of the Board President, Superintendent and Chief Business Office, according to board documents.

According to board documents, approval of the agreement will align with the district’s strategic goals of achieving college, career and community readiness for students.

“Mesa Public Schools’ food services program is self-funded. The department receives money from reimbursement for meals served from USDA and money that students and adults pay for meals,” MPS communications director Jen Snyder said. “Last year, the total revenue for the department was $32 million.”

Mesa Unified School District — also known as Mesa Public Schools — is the largest public school district in Arizona and has six high schools, nine junior high schools, 55 elementary schools and 18 choice and success schools.