Frequently Asked Questions

• MealViewer is the digital platform we use for menus and nutrition information.  Menus are listed by the school.
• Elementary students choose between a main or alternate entree each morning.
• Secondary students have multiple entree options each day, including three (3) regular menu options, Domino’s Smart Slice pizza, sandwiches, wraps, salads, and yogurt parfaits.

• Mascot Meals are premium meal options that include favorites like Domino’s pizza and made-to-order subs.
• The menu will identify which are considered regular entrees and which are Mascot meals.  Free and reduced students may purchase these at the free or reduced rates.

• Absolutely! Every meal follows strict federal nutrition standards (Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act) to ensure students receive balanced portions of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein. Even items like our Domino’s pizza, which may not seem healthy, are prepared exclusively for schools to meet our guidelines. 
• Daily options include fresh fruits, vegetables, baked/steamed items, with more choices as students get older.  We provide a wide variety of options to satisfy diverse palates and we frequently serve local produce too!
• Menus follow calorie, fat, sugar, and sodium limits, with specific federal guidelines for different grades. Our grains are largely whole grain rich and we never serve items containing trans fats.
• In SY 2025-26 additional standards were implemented which limit the amount of added sugars in breakfast cereals, yogurt and flavored milk.

• Several options are available:
  • Fee-Free Online Payments: Visit myschoolbucks.com to pay online, set up automatic payments, or receive low-balance notifications.
  • You can pay at your child’s school with cash or a check.

Meal and A la Carte Prices are listed on the district website.  Prices are also posted at all secondary schools, and cashiers are happy to answer any questions.

• Yes. To set account limits, please contact Jackie Andresen, Student Account Specialist, at 688-1254 or andresen.jackie@iowacityschools.org.

Families with incomes at or below 130% of the poverty line get free lunch; 130-185% get reduced-price. SNAP, TANF, and WIC recipients are directly certified for free meals.

Apply online at myschoolapps.com

• Reapply Annually: Because federal income guidelines change each year, a new application is required every school year. Applications open in mid-July.
• No Retroactive Benefits: Benefits cannot be applied to previous charges. Failing to reapply on time may result in a negative account balance. Please note that any charges incurred prior to benefit approval are the family's responsibility.
• Year-Round Changes: You can submit an application at any time during the school year if your financial situation changes.

• Contact Student Account Specialist, Jackie Andresen at 688-1254 or andresen.jackie@iowacityschools.org