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Board sets 2026–27 meal prices, staff urges families to complete free/reduced forms
Summary
Trustees set student meal prices for 2026–27 and staff warned declining free/reduced form completion has reduced reimbursements, urging outreach and options like direct certification and QR codes for applications.
The Knox Community School Corp. board set breakfast and lunch prices for the 2026–27 school year and heard from staff that falling completion of free/reduced meal forms has strained school food-service finances.
Trustees approved the following prices: student breakfast $1.75; elementary lunch $2.60; middle and high school lunch $2.85; adult breakfast $2.75; adult lunch $5.00. The board moved, seconded and approved the pricing by voice vote.
District staff told trustees the district has lost revenue because about 20% fewer families have completed free/reduced applications in recent cycles. Staff said the district will pursue outreach — including distributing forms at back‑to‑school night, sending links via PowerSchool, using QR codes and social media, and relying on direct certification for families enrolled in SNAP, Medicaid, or TANF.
Officials noted the state sets student meal prices and nutrition guidelines, and explained that while a la carte and salad‑bar options exist in some buildings, participation rates are low. Staff also clarified payment methods: online payments are available (with service fees), but families may still bring cash or checks (the district may not provide change).
Trustees and staff encouraged families to complete meal‑benefit forms so the district receives appropriate reimbursement and can sustain program offerings.
