Student Volunteer Research Assistant – Universal School Meals Project

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