Student Meal Debt Policy
SPS Student Meal Debt Policy
Seattle Public Schools is committed to providing nutritious meals to all students. However, we expect all families and students to fulfill their obligation to pay for meals prior to purchase. Any outstanding debt on a student’s meal account will be pursued by the district.
Payment Expectations
It is the responsibility of families and students to ensure that their student meal accounts are paid in full prior to the purchase of meals. Failure to pay for meals may result in the accrual of debt on the student’s account.
Collection of Outstanding Debt
Seattle Public Schools reserves the right to collect on outstanding debt incurred by students and families. This includes, notifying parents/guardians of delinquent accounts. If your family and/or student is experiencing a financial hardship, please contact your School Administrator to determine any options available to you and/or your family.
Policy Compliance
Our Student Meal Debt Policy is guided by the following supported documentation:
- OSPI Meal Charge Policy Reference Sheet
- OSPI Unpaid Meal Charges Reference Sheet
- Superintendent Procedure 3520SP
- RCW 28A.235.260
We encourage all families and students to carefully review these documents and understand their responsibilities regarding meal payments.
Reminders and Notifications
To avoid accumulation of debt, we recommend that families and students:
- Regularly check their student meal account balance
- Keep track of meal purchases and payments
- Notify the school cafeteria staff or school administration if there are any issues with their account
By working together, we can ensure that every student has access to nutritious meals while maintaining a positive balance on their account.
If you have any questions or concerns about our Student Meal Debt Policy, please do not hesitate to contact culinaryservices@seattleschools.org.