School lunch prices go up at Las Cruces schools

A majority of students at Las Cruces Public Schools qualify for free or reduced-priced meals.

Those who pay full price are paying more this year.

The United States Department of Agriculture Act of 2010 requires LCPS campuses to charge students as much for a lunch as the district receives from the USDA for a student who receives free meals.

The USDA mandated the price increase so that the amount paid for regular-price meals is closer to their actual cost.

In elementary schools, the price increased from $1.75 to $1.80.

In middle schools, the price increased from $2.00 to $2.10.

In high schools the price increased from $2.10 to $2.25.

LCPS Executive Director of Operations, Nancy Cathey, said students will continue getting a balanced meal that includes two ounces of protein, one to two servings of grains, one carton of milk, half a cup of fruit or piece of fruit that is equivalent and nearly a cup of vegetables.

Twenty-six schools at LCPS qualify for the USDA’s Community Eligibility Program, where all students get free breakfast and lunch.

Prices for reduced breakfast and lunch, based on eligibility, will not change.

Parents must fill out an application to check if their child qualifies and they can request that the school review their eligibility through out the year.