The Churchill County School District Board held a Zoom meeting on July 25, 2025, to discuss proposed changes to meal pricing for students, focusing on lunch and breakfast costs. The primary topic of discussion was the potential reduction of lunch prices from the current rate of $4.25 to $4.00, which could result in an annual subsidy cost of approximately $56,000 for the district over ten months. Board members reviewed historical data and estimated that a $0.25 decrease in lunch prices would cost the district around $14,000 annually.
Terry, a district representative, presented a spreadsheet detailing various meal pricing scenarios and emphasized that many students would qualify for direct certification, which would reduce the overall subsidy needed. The board discussed the implications of using capital improvement funds to support meal pricing adjustments, noting that any changes would require careful justification to ensure compliance with federal funding regulations.
The board also considered the possibility of adjusting breakfast prices, with discussions indicating that a reduction could also be feasible. The current breakfast cost is $2.25, and a potential decrease could lead to additional savings for families. The board acknowledged the importance of being proactive in setting meal prices, especially given the changing economic circumstances for families since the pandemic.
In conclusion, the board is leaning towards setting the lunch price at $4.00 and is open to further discussions on breakfast pricing. They plan to monitor meal participation rates and costs throughout the school year to make any necessary adjustments. The meeting highlighted the district's commitment to providing affordable meal options while navigating budgetary constraints.