Columbia high schools to offer meals for students staying after school

Starting this week, Columbia Public Schools will offer dinner for high school students who stay late after school.

“We have some students who can’t get off campus to get something and come back,” said CPS Nutrition Director Laina Fullum. “We also have some students who can’t afford a meal or maybe there’s not a meal waiting for them at home. We want to fill that niche and see if we can meet the needs of some students who are struggling.”

Administrators worked to make the program a reality for about two months. The program started Monday for students staying after school for clubs, athletic s or special events.

“A lot of our teachers were actually supplying food for their students and they thought well is there something we could do,” Fullum said. “So we decided to do a separate program.”

Menu items will include foods that students identified as their favorites, included chicken patties and tacos. A hot meal will cost $2.90, and individual snack and a la carte options are also available.

Meals qualify for free or reduced pricing.

“The district has pledged some funding of its own towards the program itself,” said Fullum.

She said she’s applied for federal funding as well and hopes that will bring in some more money for the program.

Students can get meals from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Availability may vary on Fridays.

Dinner is available to students who go to Hickman, Battle and Rock Bridge high schools.