Apply for Educational Benefits
Support Your Family and Help Bring Additional Resources to Our Schools
Each year, we invite families to complete the Application for Educational Benefits through the Minnesota Department of Education. It’s a quick and important step that can help connect families to potential resources they may not realize they qualify for and ensures our schools receive funding that supports district needs.
We encourage families to submit a new application each school year, even if they qualified in a previous year. Benefits do not automatically carry over, so a new application must be submitted yearly.
How to Apply

Why Apply?
Completing the application may provide access to valuable benefits and help our schools secure additional resources for our students.
Families who qualify may be eligible for benefits such as:
- Summer grocery assistance
- Internet and utility discounts
- Test fee waivers
- Reduced busing fees
- Discounts for activities and clubs
- Additional funding for the district

Who Qualifies?
Eligibility is determined by the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) and may change from year to year.
Your family may qualify if any of the following apply:
- You participate in assistance programs, such as SNAP
- You have a foster child in your household
- Your household income falls within the guidelines listed in the application
If you’re unsure, we still encourage you to apply — the application will help determine eligibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why should I apply for Educational Benefits if school meals are free?
- Who should complete the application?
- Do I need to apply every year?
- How long do Educational Benefits last?
- Do foster children qualify for Educational Benefits?
- Are all student meals free?
- What if my family's financial situation changes during the school year?
Why should I apply for Educational Benefits if school meals are free?
Who should complete the application?
Do I need to apply every year?
How long do Educational Benefits last?
Do foster children qualify for Educational Benefits?
Are all student meals free?
What if my family's financial situation changes during the school year?
