Madison Reporter

The Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District’s free summer meals program has reached a new milestone this year, with Nutrition Services staff serving a record number of lunches at Middleton High School. The program, which started in 2016, continues to see strong participation from students and families.

“Lunch this year was shocking for us but exciting,” said Assistant Nutrition Services Supervisor Janelle Piddington.

Staff at Middleton High School have served between 20 and 30 breakfasts each day and between 30 and 60 lunches daily. On one day, they served 80 lunches, the highest number since the program began. According to Piddington, these lunch figures are “significantly higher” than in previous summers.

Piddington noted that parents have provided positive feedback throughout the summer. “They’ve said, ‘we're so glad you're here’ and ‘thanks for doing this.’”

Parents have also expressed appreciation for the fresh fruits and vegetables offered as part of the healthy meal options. Juice boxes remain a favorite among students. The program also features regular visits from the Middleton Public Library's bookmobile, allowing students to take home free books.

In addition to services at Middleton High School, free summer meals are available to students attending Summer Academy at Kromrey Middle School, which serves grades K-8 during summer school.

The summer meals initiative is funded through reimbursement from the state of Wisconsin. It is open not only to MCPASD students but also to community members under age 18. Meals are provided Mondays through Thursdays until July 31.