(previously known as Free and Reduced Price Meals)

Rochester Public Schools wants to help families receive additional benefits for school. To see if you qualify, we check your household income against the USDA guidelines. Applications are available to all families at the start of the school year. Parents also have the option to apply online at: www.PayPAMS.com/onlineapp.aspx

If your application is approved, your student can get more than just free meals! Other benefits include reduced or waived fees for:

• Activities and athletics through your school or Community Education

• AP tests

• College applications

• Transportation

• Internet service for your home

• SUN Bucks

• Scholarships for Early Childhood Family Education classes or RPS Preschool

If your family is already part of certain public assistance programs, you don't have to fill out a new application, but can use your program case number instead. These programs include:

• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

• Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP)

• Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR)

For more information about Free and Reduced-Price Meals, please check out the Minnesota Department of Education website. 

• Families must reapply each year.

• Benefits begin after the application is processed and are not retroactive. 

• SNS will notify you in writing whether your application is approved or denied.

• Districts qualify for education funds based on the number of students eligible for free or reduced price meals each year.