California’s Charter Schools are finding different ways to advocate and provide for their most vulnerable students. On September 18, 2018, Governor Jerry Brown signed Assembly Bill (AB) 1871 to law. AB 1871, authored by Assemblymember Ron Bonta (D-Oakland), will provide free and reduced lunch to eligible students.
In a statement that was released after the governor signed the bill, Assemblymember Bonta said, “Food is fundamental, and hunger doesn’t care where a student goes to school. I thank the Governor for signing this bill because every student in California deserves access to a healthy meal. AB 1871 means more children will have nourishment and thereby be ready to learn and reach their full potential.”
Charter schools already recognize how important nutrition is for learning, and some have already been providing meals to eligible students. This new law will help charter schools provide at least one free or reduced-price meal a day to students who qualify. Charter schools will be partnering with local districts to receive support in: access to quality facilities, food service vendors, and technical expertise in to help navigate local and federal food service requirements.
This is a major win towards supporting charter schools to continue to support children and putting children first.
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