Harding Newsletter
November 8, 2026
Academic Benefits
While one breakfast and one lunch complete meals are free for all in-person students each school day, it is CRITICAL that families still complete the Application for Educational Benefits. Paper copies are available at school.
These applications will continue to determine the following benefits and funding for schools, students and families.
Benefits for Schools
Federal and State funding and financial assistance for academic support, services, and educational programs like Education Rate (e-Rates) and Title 1.
E-Rate helps pay for a school's technology and internet connectivity.
Title I helps pay for academic support and services for students in high-poverty schools.
Federal and State Meal reimbursements
Access to grants based on Free Reduced Pricing (F/R) percentages (%)
F/R % is used to qualify schools for the free afterschool and summer meal programs.
Field trip discounts
Benefits for Students
Test Fee Waivers (ACT and SAT)
Activity / Athletic fee discounts
Scholarship opportunities
Tutoring and after-school programs
Benefits for Families
Visit the provider’s website for discount and eligibility details.
Summer Groceries: SUN Bucks (formerly S-EBT)
Bus or Train Rides: Metro Transit’s Transit Assistance Program Reduced transit fares
Internet assistance programs: Xfinity Internet Essentials
Electric and Natural Gas Utilities: Xcel Energy Savings and Affordability Programs
Discounts from participating community organizations
o Amazon’s Prime Access Membership
o Science Museum of Minnesota’s Adventure Memberships
o The Works Museum’s Gateway Program
o Guthrie Theater Gateway Tickets
o University of Minnesota Bell Museum’s Curiosity Membership
