Churchill County School Board Announces Urgent Meal Price Changes
UPDATE: The Churchill County School Board has just announced new meal prices for the upcoming school year during a meeting on July 24, 2023. Breakfast at all schools will now cost $2, while lunch prices vary by school: $3.25 at elementary schools, $3.75 at Churchill County Middle School, and $4 at Churchill County High School.
This is the first increase in meal prices since 2020, and officials are emphasizing the minimal rise of $1 or less to ease concerns among families. Amber Scholl, director of dining services at Chartwells, expressed gratitude to the board for the decision, stating, “I think that small of an increase in a five-year increment will be very pleasing to most of the public.”
The food service program is ramping up with exciting events as back-to-school approaches. Chartwells plans to cater these events and will provide computer access for families applying for free and reduced meal programs. Scholl stressed the importance of clear communication to help families understand the application process, particularly for those who may have experienced changes in financial status.
In addition to meal pricing, the board discussed significant updates to the middle school and Northside cafeterias. These updates will include fresh paint, graphics, improved lighting, and new stainless steel shelving and countertops.
Upcoming culinary initiatives include the return of celebrity chef Jonathon Zaragoza to the high school in October as part of the “Global Eats” program. Additionally, holiday meals will be offered again in November and December, and a new deli station for sub sandwiches is on the way. High school and middle school students will soon enjoy smoothies on the go, while monthly themed “Discovery Kitchen” lessons and events are set to return.
Scholl highlighted a remarkable increase in lunch participation, with numbers doubling at both the high school and middle school compared to last year. This boost is attributed to a wider variety of meal options, including additional pizza toppings and fresh salad bar selections. The district’s summer food service program also saw a rise in participation, with weekly community bulk meal box distributions increasing from 800 to 1,600.
However, the board also faced challenges as Superintendent Derild Parsons revealed a pause on $203,468.83 in federal grant funding from the U.S. Department of Education. This funding was earmarked for critical initiatives, including $43,000 for new hire incentives and essential tutoring programs. The state has warned districts to prepare for a wait of at least 18 months for the release of these funds.
Despite this setback, the district is exploring temporary measures and potential funding from the recently passed Assembly Bill 398 to support hiring efforts. Parsons assured the board that plans are in place to manage the situation while awaiting approval of federal funding.
For those interested in staying updated, a video livestream of school board meetings is available on the YouTube channel “ChurchillCSDBoardMeetings.” The next regular meeting is scheduled for August 27, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. at the District Office located at 690 S. Maine St.
The changes in meal pricing and funding challenges reflect a crucial moment for the Churchill County School District as it prepares to support students and families in the upcoming school year.
