Archive: Around Town

The School Board meeting at Lansing Elementary School's cafeteria had a more than usual turnout last Monday (09/12) as students sought to fulfill a government assignment by attending a public meeting.  Students got to participate in government as well as observe it.  During the public comments part of the meeting Sharia Osborne expressed concern that lunch prices have risen, while choices have been reduced.

Board President Bonita Lindberg explained the economics of the price rises.  Lansing has not been able to cover the cost of the food and expenses such as salaries, so has raised prices to cover these expenses. 

The school district receives 22 cents from the federal government and 6.5 cents from the state, for a total of $.285 for each meal sold. Part of the problem is that many Middle and High School students have been buying their meals a la carte, which does not qualify for the reimbursement.  While government reimbursements offset some of the cost of the food service, the selling price must make up the rest.  The program operated at a loss last year, so prices were raised in an attempt to break even.  Last year 164,724 meals were sold.

Ms. Lindberg said that she did not know why choices have been reduced, but that the best person to ask is Suzanne Wixom, Director of Food Services.  She suggested Ms. Osborne follow up with her.

Board Member Christine Iacobucci told Ms. Osborne that the board will be looking at the nutritional value of the food that is served in the schools at some time in the future, and that they would be looking for input from various groups, including students, when they do.  She invited Ms. Osborne to become involved when the time comes.

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