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Highlands Today
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School Lunches May Cost More
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Published: May 4, 2008
SEBRING — High gas and diesel prices have not only strained family budgets, but are challenging the school district's Food Service Department, which is trying to the hold the line on food costs and lunch prices.
Food costs for the district have increased about 8 to 12 percent, said Martha Brown, food service coordinator. The district will have to seriously consider raising lunch prices, she said.
Last year, the school board tentatively said lunch prices could be raised 25 cents in the fall, but the board would have to review the food service budget to make that decision, Brown added.
Higher transportation and diesel costs are responsible for the increasing costs. However, the lunch menus, which are based on nutritional value, will likely remain the same despite the increasing costs of preparing them.
"I'm unwilling at this point to look for products of lesser quality even though they might be less expensive," Brown said.
About 18 months ago, Highlands County joined a 35-county group that uses its large size to "power buy" for lower prices, she said. The group is reviewing the most frequently used items to consolidate purchases for lower prices.
The number of students eating lunch has changed little, but Brown believes students and parents recognize it as a better value now.
You can buy lunch at school for $2 as opposed to spending $3 to $5 for a fast-food lunch, she noted. But, some high school juniors and seniors prefer to go off campus for lunch.
"I'm not sure everybody has changed their spending habits yet," due to the economy and price of gas, she said. People may make more personal budget adjustments next year.
The daily lunch prices, which include an entree and four other items, are: $1.75 for elementary students, $2 for middle and high school students and $2.75 for adults.
Lunch prices last increased by 25 cents on Nov. 8.
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