We are seeking a high school or college student for a short-term, project-based volunteer opportunity to help research which school districts across the United States offer universal school meals. This role is ideal for a student who is organized, detail-oriented, and interested in education, public policy, nutrition, or nonprofit research. This is a volunteer position with a defined scope, deliverable, and deadline. It is not an internship or fellowship.

Responsibilities

  • Research school district policies and practices related to universal school meals
  • Review school district websites and other public sources to identify relevant information
  • Track and organize findings in a spreadsheet or similar format
  • Document sources clearly for verification
  • Flag missing, unclear, or conflicting information
  • Help prepare a final organized list of school districts offering universal school meals

 

Qualifications

  • High school or college student
  • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
  • Comfortable conducting online research independently
  • Able to meet deadlines and follow project guidance
  • Interest in education, child nutrition, public policy, or nonprofit work is a plus
  • Experience with spreadsheets is helpful but not required

 

Time Commitment

  • Short-term, project-based volunteer role
  • Estimated commitment: 5-10 hours per week

 

What the Student Will Gain

  • Hands-on research experience
  • Exposure to a national issue affecting children and families
  • Opportunity to build analytical and organizational skills
  • Volunteer experience that can be included on a résumé or college application