Comal Independent School District approves modest meal price increase for 2025-2026

The Comal Independent School District (CISD) Board of Trustees convened on May 15, 2025, to address several key agenda items, including a significant proposal regarding child nutrition pricing for the upcoming school year.

The meeting began with the board skipping over item 10a, as there were no consent items requiring further discussion. They proceeded directly to item 10b, which focused on the consideration and possible approval of increased breakfast and lunch prices for the 2025-2026 school year.

Mr. Graham presented the proposal, explaining that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides a formula that school districts must follow when setting meal prices. Due to recent meal reimbursement rate increases and the impact of pandemic-related waivers, many districts, including CISD, had not raised meal prices in several years. The current weighted price analysis indicated a necessary increase of 61 cents to meet compliance; however, the district is not obligated to implement this increase all at once.

To mitigate the financial impact, the administration recommended a more gradual approach, proposing a 10-cent increase for the 2025-2026 school year. Specifically, the recommended prices are $2.05 for student breakfasts (grades PK-12), $3.30 for student lunches (grades PK-5), and $3.50 for student lunches (grades 6-12). Additionally, a 20-cent increase for adult meal prices was suggested.

Board member Ms. Hennessy acknowledged the need for the increase, noting the importance of reaching the required compliance while only implementing a smaller increase this year.

The board's discussions highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by school nutrition programs and the necessity of adjusting meal prices to avoid operating deficits. The meeting concluded with a clear understanding of the proposed changes, which aim to ensure the sustainability of the district's food service program while adhering to federal guidelines. Further actions and decisions regarding the proposal will be addressed in upcoming meetings.