Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) announced a 10-cent increase in Charles County school meal prices for the 2025-2026 school year, affecting both breakfast and lunch costs. Elementary school students will pay $1.45 for breakfast and $2.90 for lunch, while middle and high school students will pay $1.60 for breakfast and $3.15 for lunch. The cost of milk remains unchanged at 75 cents across all school levels, ensuring affordability for this staple in Charles County school meals.
Students eligible for free or reduced-price Charles County school meals will continue to receive breakfast and lunch at no cost. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) sets income eligibility guidelines for these programs, which families can review on the CCPS Food and Nutrition Services website at www.ccboe.com. Families must submit a single application per household to qualify for free or reduced-price Charles County school meals, available at any school office or online at https://www.myschoolapps.com/. Students who qualified last year retain their status until October 7, 2025, but families must submit a new application before this deadline to maintain eligibility. For first-time applicants, students must pay for Charles County school meals until the application is processed.
CCPS encourages all families to apply for free or reduced-price Charles County school meals, regardless of income, as application data helps secure funding for technology and student support services in Charles County schools. This additional funding can enhance educational resources in Southern Maryland, benefiting communities in Charles County.
Twelve CCPS schools participate in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP), allowing all students at these schools to receive free breakfast and lunch regardless of family income. The CEP schools include Dr. Gustavus Brown Elementary, Indian Head Elementary, Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer Elementary, Arthur Middleton Elementary, Mt. Hope/Nanjemoy Elementary, Dr. Samuel A. Mudd Elementary, J.P. Ryon Elementary, Eva Turner Elementary, John Hanson Middle, General Smallwood Middle, Benjamin Stoddert Middle, and Thomas Stone High. This program ensures access to Charles County school meals for students in these communities, supporting families across Southern Maryland.
As of July 21, 2025, the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) has not finalized the Maryland Meals for Achievement (MMFA) program, which provides free breakfast at select schools. Updates on the MMFA program will be shared as they become available, potentially expanding access to free Charles County school meals. Families are urged to check the CCPS website for the latest information and to submit meal applications promptly to ensure uninterrupted benefits for the 2025-2026 school year.
