California Department of Education Releases Crucial Guidance for 2025-2026 School Year: CEP Application and Mandatory P2 Base Year Review
The California Department of Education (CDE) has published important information regarding the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) application process and the mandatory P2 base year review for the upcoming 2025-2026 school year. This announcement, dated July 28, 2025, provides essential guidance for school districts and local educational agencies (LEAs) looking to participate in or continue their participation in this vital federal program.
The Community Eligibility Provision, a cornerstone of federal nutrition programs, allows eligible schools, school districts, and groups of schools to offer free breakfast and lunch to all students without the need for individual applications. This streamlines the process, reduces administrative burden, and ensures that all students, regardless of their family’s income, have access to nutritious meals.
Key Information for the 2025-2026 School Year:
The CDE’s newly released document, “CEP Application and Mandatory P2 Base Year Review,” offers comprehensive details on the requirements and procedures for the 2025-2026 school year. This includes:
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Application Process: The guidance outlines the steps LEAs must take to apply for CEP for the upcoming school year. This typically involves submitting specific data related to student enrollment and direct certification of economically disadvantaged students. Early preparation and careful attention to detail are paramount to ensure a successful application.
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Mandatory P2 Base Year Review: A significant component of the CEP program is the annual review of the “P2” data. The P2 data refers to the second principal or attendance period reporting, which is a key indicator for determining eligibility. The CDE emphasizes that this review is mandatory for all LEAs participating in or seeking to participate in CEP. This review ensures that schools continue to meet the eligibility thresholds and that the program is being utilized effectively.
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Eligibility Thresholds: The document likely details the specific criteria for determining eligibility, which are based on the percentage of “identified students” (students certified for free meals through direct certification or other means). Understanding these percentages and how to accurately collect and report this data is critical for LEAs.
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Implementation and Benefits: The guidance serves as a valuable resource for LEAs to understand the implementation of CEP, including the benefits it offers to students, families, and the school community. By providing free meals to all, schools can foster a more inclusive environment, improve student concentration and academic performance, and alleviate financial burdens on families.
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Resources and Support: The CDE is committed to supporting LEAs in their efforts to provide nutritious meals to students. The published information likely includes links to additional resources, FAQs, and contact information for CDE staff who can provide assistance throughout the application and review process.
Importance of Proactive Engagement:
The release of this information well in advance of the application period underscores the CDE’s commitment to supporting LEAs and ensuring a smooth transition for the 2025-2026 school year. LEAs are strongly encouraged to review the “CEP Application and Mandatory P2 Base Year Review” document thoroughly, familiarize themselves with the requirements, and begin any necessary data collection or preparation as soon as possible.
By actively engaging with this guidance, California schools can effectively leverage the Community Eligibility Provision to enhance student well-being and academic success through consistent access to healthy, free meals. This initiative remains a testament to California’s dedication to addressing food security and promoting a supportive learning environment for all students.
CEP Application and Mandatory P2 Base Year Review
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