(Campus News: College Edition - Graphic Illustration - MetroCreativeConnection)

MARIETTA — The Washington County Career Center will provide free breakfast and lunch to all students during the 2025-26 school year under a new policy change.

The school has qualified for the Community Eligibility Provision, a federal option under the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs. CEP allows schools in low-income areas to serve meals at no charge to all enrolled students, regardless of family income.

As a result, the Career Center will no longer collect applications for free, reduced-price or paid meals.

In a release from the Career Center, school officials say the change reduces the burden on families while helping ensure all students have access to nutritious meals each day.