Residents press board over $4.15 lunch price; community offers fundraising help for prom and meals

Several residents told the Lodi Board of Education on May 28 that recent increases in school lunch prices are creating hardship for families, and asked the district to seek ways to reduce costs or expand assistance.

Omar Lopez, who gave his address and spoke during public comment, said school lunches “climbed all the way to $4.15” and urged board members to consider the cumulative cost for families. Lopez said free and reduced‑price programs exist but are imperfect and urged the board to publicize and expand assistance. When asked during the finance discussion, the clerk confirmed the lunch price rose by 15 cents from $4.00 to $4.15.

Frank Diaz, who identified himself as a local business owner, offered a fundraising alternative for future years: his company operates large family events and he said he could donate access to bouncy houses and event planning so the district could raise money for prom costs or other student needs. Diaz estimated events of the type he runs can raise significant funds and said he would be willing to work with the board for next year’s prom or to run separate events to help cover lunches.

Superintendent Rocco D'Amico responded to the prom ticket request by saying the district will look into individual requests and try to help students who contact the school about financial hardship, while also noting timing constraints for last‑minute requests. Board members and several commenters suggested improved communication about district needs so willing residents can target donations and volunteer time.

The finance resolutions (FB items) that include the meal pricing information were moved and placed for roll call during the meeting; members proceeded with the finance roll call after the discussion. No immediate policy change to the free/reduced program was announced at the meeting.