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Pascagoula‑Gautier board unanimously approves phase‑three school meal changes for 2026–27
Summary
The Pascagoula‑Gautier School District Board unanimously approved phase three of a plan moving most students back to paid lunch pricing in 2026–27 while the district covers targeted breakfasts; the plan phases out universal free meals after federal program thresholds fell below eligibility.
The Pascagoula‑Gautier School District Board of Trustees on April 13 unanimously approved a phase‑three plan to change school meal pricing for the 2026–27 school year, moving most students back to paid lunch pricing while the district funds limited free breakfasts.
Superintendent Dr. Payton told the board that the district previously participated in federal provisions allowing universal free meals but no longer meets the recommended thresholds. “Phase one was the 2024‑25 school year. Child Nutrition covered $960,000,” she said, adding that phase two included $320,500 from Child Nutrition and $342,430 covered by the district for pre‑K lunch. For 2026‑27, the recommendation is that the district cover an estimated $216,945 to provide free breakfast for pre‑K through sixth graders not eligible under federal criteria while returning pre‑K through 12 students to a lunch pricing program.
Why it matters: The change responds to shifts in eligibility for the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) and similar programs; Dr. Payton said the district no longer qualified after federal thresholds changed and the phased approach was intended to avoid abrupt midyear changes. Board members emphasized that no child would be denied food and that families who qualify for SNAP, TANF or income thresholds remain automatically eligible for free meals.
Board discussion noted regional context and district choices. A trustee said research showed Pascagoula was among the few districts that had contributed to lunches historically and asked for comparative data from nearby districts. The board discussed the effect on staffing and budgets; one trustee observed the $219,000 figure equated roughly to three teacher units in budget terms. Dr. Payton reiterated the district’s practice of encouraging families to complete free‑and‑reduced applications and said changes in household circumstances can affect eligibility during the school year.
Direct quotes and attributions: “No student is going hungry,” Dr. Payton said, describing safeguards for students who cannot pay. On outreach, Dr. Payton said, “Anytime your situation changes, and if you’re not sure, call us and we’re going to help you out.”
Vote and next steps: After discussion, the board voted to accept the superintendent’s recommendation; the motion carried unanimously. The district will proceed with the phase‑in plan for 2026–27 and provide public guidance about application processes and eligibility checks.
The board’s action leaves details—such as final budget allocations and implementation timeline—subject to administrative follow‑up and public communication.
