By Emily lane

The Natchez Democrat

NATCHEZ — Rather than journey to across town registering a number children at a number of different schools, Natchez-Adams School District parents can get it all done Friday in one swoop.

A Day in the District from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the David Steckler Multipurpose Building on Natchez High School’s campus will allow parents to register their children and apply for the free or reduced lunch program.

“(The event) is an opportunity to get done as much as you can before the first day of school, which is Aug. 4,” NASD Federal Programs Director Marilyn Alexander-Turner said.

Parents must bring two proofs of residence, such as a utility bill or driver’s license, to register their children in grades kindergarten through 12th grade, Turner said.

Parents must also complete a new form each year in order for students to receive free or reduced lunches.

Child Nutrition Supervisor Shantoura Spears said qualifications for the free lunch program include homeless children, families with low income and recipients of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families and food stamps. No proof of income is required to fill out the application.

Parents can also receive information about dress codes, school supplies, class schedules, attendance, parent centers, Parent-Teacher Association, extra-curricular activities, staffing, school activities and more.

Alexander-Turner said each school will host an information table. Parents can find out their child’s class schedules and school supplies list at the table corresponding to their school.

Alexander-Turner said children must be registered each year before school starts.

Spears said the district can accept free or reduced lunch application until October, but parents must apply before school starts to receive the rates by August.