School Board Approves Draft Budget and Lunch Cost Increases for 2025-2026

During the Millburn Township School District Board of Education meeting on July 21, 2025, key discussions centered around the approval of the draft budget and the rising costs of food services for the upcoming school year. The meeting highlighted the financial implications of these decisions for the district and the community.

The board unanimously approved the draft budget for public hosting, indicating a commitment to transparency and community engagement in financial matters. This approval is crucial as it sets the stage for the district's financial planning and resource allocation for the upcoming year.

A significant topic of discussion was the increase in lunch costs for the 2025-2026 school year, which rose by approximately 3.6% due to higher expenses from the food service provider, Whitsons. The board members expressed concerns about the sale of a la carte items, such as cookies and ice cream, particularly at the middle school level. One board member questioned the appropriateness of selling these items to students, suggesting it could contribute to behavioral issues. The administration clarified that while Whitsons sells these items, they do not encourage excessive consumption and have implemented a system to notify parents when students make such purchases.

The revenue generated from these a la carte sales is significant, with Whitsons reporting nearly $17,000 in sales from cookies and ice cream last year. This revenue is essential for maintaining the food service program, which has faced financial challenges. The district subsidized the food service program by $55,000 last year, with funds allocated for kitchen equipment and lunch supervision stipends.

The discussions at the meeting reflect broader concerns about student nutrition and behavior, as well as the financial sustainability of school food programs. As the district navigates these challenges, the board's decisions will have lasting implications for both the educational environment and the community's trust in the school system. Moving forward, the board will need to balance financial viability with the health and well-being of its students.