Starting Monday, Sept. 14, , Bluffton Schools will participate in the federal meal program that will temporarily offer free breakfast and lunch to all students, according to Greg Denecker, Bluffton superintendent.

"This program is expected to run through the end of the calendar year, Dec. 31, 2020," he said.

"If we get word that the program is terminating sooner, we will alert families immediately.  This program was extended to schools as a response to economic concerns brought on for many families by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Students who have balances on their meal accounts will have those balances retained until the school resumes paid lunches.  

Balances and additional funds may continue to be deposited into accounts for additional ala cart menu items beyond the basic lunch or to buy anything extra.