School meals in Charles County are becoming pricier due to the growing expenses of food and labor.
The Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) has announced an increase in school meal prices for the upcoming 2025-2026 academic year. The adjustment is due to the rising costs of food and labor in the country.
From next school year, elementary school students will pay $1.45 for breakfast and $2.90 for lunch. Middle and high school students will be charged $1.60 for breakfast and $3.15 for lunch. However, milk will remain at a consistent price of 75 cents across all school levels.
It's important to note that students eligible for free or reduced-price meals will continue to receive meals at no charge. The income eligibility guidelines for these meals are set by the USDA.
In a move to support families with financial difficulties, a number of schools under the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) will provide free meals regardless of family income. These schools include Dr. Gustavus Brown Elementary, Indian Head Elementary, Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer Elementary, Arthur Middleton Elementary, Mt. Hope/Nanjemoy Elementary, Dr. Samuel A. Mudd Elementary, J.P. Ryon Elementary, Eva Turner Elementary, John Hanson Middle, General Smallwood Middle, Benjamin Stoddert Middle, and Thomas Stone High School.
Before the 2025-2026 academic year, CCPS meal prices had remained unchanged since 2021. This increase marks the first adjustment in several years, reflecting the ongoing economic challenges faced by many institutions.
The CCPS aims to provide nutritious and affordable meals to all students, ensuring they have the energy they need to focus on their studies and achieve academic success. For more information about the school meal programme, visit the CCPS website or contact your child's school.
- Parents might need to consider adjusting their financial plans for the upcoming school year, as the prices for meals at Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) have increased due to rising costs of food and labor.
- To support education-and-self-development, some schools under the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) will offer free meals to all students, regardless of family income, helping alleviate potential financial burdens in business and finance for qualifying families.
