W. Va. Code R. § 126-85-53
Current through Register Vol. XLI, No. 49, December 6, 2024
Section 126-85-53 - Reviewing Official's Responsibilities53.1. The reviewing official is responsible for ensuring that applications have been classified correctly by category of eligibility. If the reviewing official is authorized by the SFA to delegate the responsibility for reviewing applications, then the person so designated shall be informed about program requirements and policy. Since the SFA official who signed the policy statement agreement with the State agency ultimately is responsible for the integrity of the approval process, the principal's signature stamp may be used. A suggested alternative would be to place a statement in the school's files as to the name and/or title of the designee, who would then be permitted to sign the applications without having to use the principal's signature stamp. 53.2. Approved or denial of free and reduced price meal applications must be entered on the application in the appropriate areas. Parents must be notified of approval or denial within 10 working days after the completed application has been returned to the school. In making determination regarding eligibility for meal benefits, increases in benefit levels must be made no later than three (3) operating days from the final decision. 53.3. A fair hearing procedure shall be established for parent's appeals concerning eligibility determination and for school official's challenges. The Parent and/or guardian has ten (10) days to appeal the decision of school officials. During an appeal or hearing, the student shall continue to receive free or reduced price meals. Standard hearing procedures are outlined in the Policy Statement. 53.4. The reviewing official may request verification of information submitted on any application under the following circumstances: 53.4.1. a written, signed complaint; 53.4.2. illegible, incomplete or questionable information on the application; and/or 53.4.3. the USDA required verification sampling. 53.5. Reviewing officials cannot sign the parent's/guardian's name to an application completed by the parents or guardians but must return the application for the proper signature. 53.6. Other questions pertaining to free/reduced price meal policies are answered in the Eligibility Guidance for School Meal Programs. W. Va. Code R. § 126-85-53