During a recent meeting of the Oregon School District Board, significant discussions centered around the challenges facing the district's food service program and the proposed strategies to address a growing budget deficit.

Dr. Bergstrom presented a detailed analysis of the district's food service finances, highlighting a deficit of approximately $185,000 for the 2023-2024 school year, following a similar shortfall the previous year. The primary factors contributing to this deficit include rising food prices, diminishing federal subsidies, and the operational costs associated with a newly built food production kitchen.

To mitigate the financial strain, Dr. Bergstrom outlined three potential strategies: increasing the number of meals served, raising meal prices, and improving operational efficiencies. A proposed 15-cent increase in meal prices could generate an additional $44,000 in revenue, while efforts to boost meal participation by 10% among students eligible for free and reduced lunches could yield further savings. The board discussed the importance of balancing these increases with the potential impact on families, particularly those already facing financial hardships.

The board also considered operational changes, such as consolidating food service lines at certain schools to streamline service and reduce costs. Dr. Bergstrom assured members that these adjustments would not compromise the quality of food served, emphasizing that fresh food preparation would continue at all kitchens.

As the district navigates these financial challenges, the board expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts to engage with teachers and the community, reinforcing the importance of valuing teacher input in decision-making processes. The meeting concluded with a commitment to further explore these strategies and their implications for the district's food service program.