The Texas Legislature is spending $6.6 million over the next two years to cover the cost of breakfast for students who qualify for reduced-price meals. The new funding is going to benefit about 1,800 students in Austin ISD.
On a bright, hot July day, students trickle into the cafeteria at Akins Early College High School in South Austin. There, they can grab chicken, grilled cheese sandwiches, carrots and peas, fresh fruit and a roll for free. They’re greeted by Austin ISD employees, like Roland Cortez.
Cortez, who is the food service manager at Akins ECHS, has been working at the Austin ISD campus for 13 years. He said his team has a primary goal.
“To feed our kids and make them feel welcome, and make them feel like they’re at home,” he said.
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