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National School Lunch Program (NSLP)

young child eating lunch with friends

The National School Lunch Program (NSLP) is a federally assisted meal program that provides nutritious, low-cost or free lunches to students each day. Specific meal patterns and nutrition standards are required in the NSLP.

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Computer icon Colorado Nutrition Portal

Form icon Training

How to Apply

Learn more about how to apply, including:

  • Instructions

  • Deadlines

How to Claim

Learn more about how to submit a reimbursement claim, including:

  • Instructions
  • Upload Instructions

  • Reimbursement Rates
  • Deadlines

Program Requirements

Learn more about program requirements, including:

  • School Meal Eligibility
  • Menu Planning & Meal Patterns
  • Procurement
  • Civil Rights

  • Financial Management
  • Professional Standards
  • School Wellness Policy
  • Food Safety

Outreach Toolkit

Learn more about the outreach toolkit, including: 

  • How to promote and market school lunches and the free and reduced-price applications at your sites.  

Frequently Requested:

USDA Resources

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Financial transparency

Financial information on schools and districts throughout Colorado. Learn more about financial transparency.

Contact Us

Colorado Dept. of Education
201 East Colfax Ave.
Denver, CO 80203
Phone: 303-866-6600
Fax: 303-830-0793
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See also Licensing Hours