All overdue student meal accounts in Alpine Independent School District have been paid off following a community fundraising effort that raised nearly $4,000, district officials announced this week.
According to Alpine ISD, the donations cleared every outstanding balance, ensuring that no student in the district carries meal debt going forward.
The effort was coordinated with help from Visit Alpine, Texas, and Alpine ISD Nutrition Director Amanda Lujan. District officials thanked local residents and donors for contributing to the fundraiser, noting that gifts of all sizes helped make the goal possible.
“Thank you to everyone who gave, big or small, to help make this blessing happen for our kids,” the district said in a social media post announcing the news.
Alpine ISD also recognized Heather Yadon of Visit Alpine, Texas, for assisting with organizing donations, along with Lujan for coordinating the effort on the district’s side.
School meal debt has become an ongoing issue for districts across Texas and the country, particularly in rural communities, as rising costs place additional strain on families. Alpine ISD officials emphasized that the fundraising effort reflects the community’s long-standing commitment to supporting local students.
“One of the things that makes us Alpine is the way we take care of each other,” the district said. “There’s nothing like being part of Buck Nation.”
With the balances paid, Alpine ISD confirmed that all students now have full access to school meals without outstanding charges.
