In their June 2022 meeting, the Onslow County Board of Education approved a 25-cent increase in student lunch prices.
Since 2015, school meals have cost $1.25 for breakfast and $2.25 for lunch. Due to the increased costs of food and labor, the Onslow County Board of Education has approved the first increase in over five years.
Breakfast costs will remain at $1.25, and starting in the 2022-2023 school year, lunch prices will increase to $2.50.
Since the 2019-2020 school year, the USDA has provided waivers to temporarily provide free meals to all students. On June 30, 2022, the waivers provided by the USDA will expire, and schools will resume charging for meals and providing free and reduced meals to students who qualify.
With paid meal service returning, it is important that families prepare ahead of the new school year.
In the last two years, OCS’ free and reduced lunch numbers have fallen 16 percent, largely due to a decrease in applications. Applications for free and reduced lunch will be available online, starting in July. All families who need assistance or believe they may qualify are encouraged to apply.
If you have any questions about meal service for the 2022-2023 school year, including how to apply for meal benefits or add money to your student’s account, please contact the OCS School Nutrition office at 910-455-2211.
