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District raises paid-lunch prices slightly; Franklin eligible for free meals under state law
Summary
The board reviewed the 2025-26 school meal price changes required under federal rules and heard that Franklin Elementary qualifies for universal free meals under state law (House Bill 1238). The district's weighted average paid lunch price will increase from $3.51 to $3.61.
Pullman Public Schools staff reviewed the 2025-26 school meal prices and said federal rules under the Healthy Hunger-Free Kids Act require a gradual increase in paid lunch prices. The district's weighted average paid lunch price was $3.51 for the prior year and must increase by $0.10 to $3.61.
Justin (staff member) summarized the paid-lunch-equity calculation and said the district increased paid prices by five cents at elementary, middle and high school levels to meet the required weighted average. He also noted that Jefferson and Kamiak students are not reflected in the paid-price table because those students receive free meals. For 2025-26 Justin said Franklin meets the eligibility criteria in House Bill 1238 and therefore will be eligible for free meals in the coming year.
Why it matters: The paid-lunch equity calculation ensures the district complies with federal requirements when charging paid prices; the Franklin change will expand free-meal access to that school's students.
Next steps: Staff will implement the price change and adjust meal billing. The board did not take a separate formal vote on pricing at Wednesday's meeting beyond the regular consent procedures.
