Joseph Shelton Calls for Free School Meals for All D11 Students

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Colorado Springs, CO

February 23, 2025

Joseph Shelton Calls for Free School Meals for All D11 Students

Joseph Shelton, candidate for the Colorado Springs School District 11 Board of Education, calls for more significant equity in the district’s meal program following the recent announcement that complimentary breakfast and lunch will only be provided at select schools during the 2024-25 school year.

“I fully support School District 11’s efforts to ensure students do not go hungry,” said Shelton. “Providing free breakfast and lunch helps students focus and succeed in the classroom. However, I am deeply disappointed that this support is only offered to some schools rather than all in our district.”

Under the current plan, students attending certain D11 schools will be guaranteed access to free meals, while others will still be required to pay—potentially leaving many children without the food they need to learn. Shelton pointed out that the district has allocated millions for school renovations but has not prioritized universal meal access.

“If D11 has $2.5 million for renovations at the Colorado Springs School of Technology and $100 million for Palmer High School, then they have the funding to ensure every student, in every school, has access to meals next year,” Shelton stated.

Having worked closely with students and families, Shelton has seen how children who do not meet the strict qualifications for free or reduced lunch still struggle to afford food. Many families earn just above the eligibility threshold but face financial hardships due to high living costs, medical bills, and other expenses.

“These are the students being left behind,” Shelton said. “We can and must do better. Every student deserves to learn without the burden of hunger. If elected to the D11 School Board, I will fight to ensure all our students have the nutrition they need—because no child should worry about where their next meal is coming from.”

For more information about Joseph Shelton’s campaign and vision for D11, please visit SheltonforD11.com or contact info@sheltonford11.com or 719-290-0440.

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