Because these schools do not necessarily send applications for the School Lunch Program home on an annual basis, including information about the health insurance programs with applications or approval letters may not be feasible or effective. Instead, school officials could send this information with other correspondence, such as the notification that all students will receive free meals. These schools might also explore other outreach strategies not necessarily connected to the School Lunch Program. Enrolling every eligible child in state-sponsored health insurance is not an easy task. While this vehicle may not suit every school in every state, preliminary data shows that the convenience and trust factors make consideration of this strategy worthwhile.
Schools have a significant interest in ensuring that their students' health care needs are met.
When children are healthy, they are ready to learn. Giving schools and districts resources, and allowing them to tailor projects to meet the needs of their students, could mean a significant difference for children. Securing health care coverage for all of California's children is the first step to ensuring both healthier kids and healthier schools.