A program piloted in the Ironwood School district among others is being expanded to the rest of the state. five years ago, the Community Eligibility Program in Ironwood provided no cost meals to all the children in the district. The program went smoothly, kids had more positive experiences in the cafeteria and the food service staff was able to work more effectively. According to WXPR, Superintendent Travis Powell says the program works very well, reducing costs and the stigma of kids not having to worry about paying for their meals. Kids who are well fed are more able to concentrate on their studies. Powell says he hopes the state’s universal free school meals program has a long term positive impact on students.