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Regional School District 18 board approves modest lunch-price increases after federal paid-lunch-equity calculation
Summary
After finding paid-lunch prices below a federally calculated target, the board approved a 10-cent increase for regular student lunches (elementary $3.50; middle/high $3.95) and a $5.50 premium high-school tier; members also discussed farm‑to‑school programs and unpaid meal balances.
Regional School District 18 trustees voted to raise student lunch prices slightly for the coming school year after staff said a federally required paid‑lunch‑equity calculation showed paid meals were underpriced.
Staff described a year of expanded food‑service initiatives — farm‑to‑school tasting events, a "mood boost" nutrition education program, and a district "cow adoption" outreach — and summarized federal changes that provide universal free breakfast for all students in Connecticut. District staff said the paid‑lunch‑equity tool calculated that a paid meal should be priced at $4.15 to meet cost targets, but the administration proposed a smaller, phased approach: a 10‑cent increase for regular tier meals (middle and high school regular tier to $3.95; elementary to $3.50) and a premium high‑school tier increased to $5.50.
Holly, who presented the price proposal, told the board the calculation suggested $4.15 per meal but the district was recommending the smaller increase now. "The calculation says that we should be charging $4.15 per meal," Holly said; she added the district opted for the lowest practical increase and will likely revisit pricing next year.
Board members asked about unpaid meal balances and alternatives to a price increase. Staff said last year’s unpaid balance totaled roughly $4,000 and that the introduction of universal free breakfast and expanded free lunches for eligible students should reduce future unpaid balances. The board also discussed procurement options: the district is required to go out to bid next year for a foodservice management company; staff said Chartwells frequently is the sole bidder in prior cycles but the district will evaluate options.
A motion to adopt the proposed price increases was moved, seconded and approved by voice vote. The board also approved, later in the meeting, a separate motion to admit a tuition seventh‑grade student for next year and then moved into executive session to discuss confidential matters.
Next steps: New lunch prices will take effect at the start of the next school year; staff will provide follow‑up information on outstanding meal balances and will prepare for the annual food‑service management bid process.
