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Mesquite ISD food service reports nearly 71% lunch participation, $1.4M supply‑chain grant
Summary
Director Lark Stewart reported that Mesquite ISD achieved nearly 71% lunch participation in 2023‑24 (above state and national averages), served over 6.3 million student meals, and secured a $1.4 million supply‑chain assistance grant; the state calculator requires adult meal price increases that will affect about 60–65 adults.
Mesquite ISD’s food and nutrition director told the board the district served more than 6.3 million student meals in 2023‑24 and achieved nearly 71% lunch participation — higher than the national (65%) and Texas (66%) averages. Lark Stewart said the district’s participation gains reflect menu changes, improved customer service, and implementation of the Community Eligibility Provision that allows all students to eat for free.
Stewart highlighted program finances and operations: FNS retained about $2.6 million and transferred $1,960,000 into the general fund as indirect costs in 2023‑24. She also said the state calculator forced an adult meal price increase of 55¢ for breakfast and 20¢ for lunch this year, which is expected to affect roughly 60–65 adults who regularly purchase meals. The department also obtained a $1.4 million supply chain assistance grant to help offset ongoing food and operational costs. “CEP provides free meals to all students regardless of their income or eligibility status,” Stewart said. The board asked questions about expanding the supper program and promoting participation; Stewart said supper (a full evening meal) was currently at Henry Elementary and the district is exploring expansion to other campuses.
