Multiple US School Districts Increase Meal Prices Amid Funding Cuts

Several U.S. school districts are proposing or implementing increases in school meal prices for the upcoming 2025-2026 school year due to rising food and operational costs. Fort Mill School District plans to raise breakfast prices by 50 cents and lunch by 75 cents, citing increased food costs despite efforts to maintain affordable meals and varied options for students. Similarly, Carrollton R-7 School District approved a modest five-cent increase in both breakfast and lunch prices to meet state requirements. Broward County Public Schools will end its universal free lunch program as federal COVID-era funding has been depleted, increasing lunch prices by $1, with prices now set at $3 for elementary and higher for secondary students. Pinellas County Schools proposes a 40 to 50-cent increase to offset rising food and operational expenses, emphasizing the need to maintain meal quality and encouraging families to apply for free or reduced meals if needed. These adjustments reflect a broader trend of school districts balancing budget constraints with the goal of providing nutritious meals amid inflationary pressures.