Decision Information Resources. Provides descriptive information on the use of direct certification for free school meals. Finds that nearly two-thirds of districts, enrolling nearly three-fourths of students nationwide, use direct certification. Estimates that the implementation of direct...

On an average school day, school lunch participants consume more fruits and vegetables, including relatively more at school and less away from school compared to nonparticipants.

An analysis of National School Lunch Program (NSLP) application records and state Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participation data revealed characteristics of school-age SNAP participants who are less likely to be matched in direct certification data matching processes....