Michigan School Meals Update

We are excited to share that Governor Whitmer signed the State School Aid budget on October 7, 2025. It included funding to continue free breakfasts and lunches for public school students in School Year 2025-2026 through the Michigan School Meals program. 

While the school meals are free, we ask Parents/Guardians to fill out the Education Benefits form to help ensure our school district receives state and federal funding for many programs that support students, such as instructional staff, counselors, technology, and extracurricular activities. Even if your family does not qualify for direct benefits like free meals, completing the form supports the entire student body by contributing to the overall funding that maintains and enhances educational resources for everyone. 

How it helps your school and district

• Increases funding: The number of students whose families complete the form is used to determine the amount of state and federal funding the school district receives. 
• Supports student programming: Funding helps pay for important programs and services, such as:
  • Instructional staff, tutors, and aides 
  • Counselors and social workers 
  • Classroom supplies, technology, and materials 
  • Professional development for teachers 
  • Before and after-school programs 
• Ensures access to other services: Depending on your eligibility and the school's programs, the form may unlock access to other benefits, such as:
  • Reduced or waived fees for athletics and other extracurricular activities 
  • Discounts on college application fees, AP tests, or other educational assessments 

Why it's important for every family to complete

• All students benefit: The funding generated from these forms supports the entire student population, not just those who directly qualify. 
• It is not just a meal application: While it includes eligibility for free or reduced-price meals, the form is also a household survey to help fund a wide range of education programs. 
• Helps fund community initiatives: In some cases, the information shared can provide household support for services like internet and cable access. 

What to do

• Complete the following:  Educational Benefits Form for 2025-2026.
• Only one form is required per household; be sure to include all students
• Fill it out even if your child is directly certified for free meals. 

Holly Area Schools depend on funding that is a directly related to the submission of these forms. Please help us to secure as much funding as possible so we can provide as many opportunities as possible for our students. Feel free to reach out to your building leadership if you have any questions.