Careful planning by Plymouth Schools Food Service Director, Gloria Burnam, and her staff means there will be no increase in meal prices for the upcoming school year. Burnham forwarded a letter from the IDOE (Indiana Department of Education) to the Board that they reviewed during their July 12 meeting.
PCSC had requested an exemption from increasing the meal prices. In the IDOE letter signed by Tina Herzog, claims and reporting specialist, they stated the following: “Keep in mind part of the exemption approval was based on the fact that you have a high balance in your food service account. Federal regulations require you keep your food service account balance lower than an average 3 months of expenses.” “ We expect this exemption will assist you in utilizing some of the funds in your account in order to bring you in compliance with the Federal Regulations.”
The IDOE indicated that the exemption is for one year only.
They further offered some suggestions for using excess funds such as “increasing fruit and vegetables; improving food quality-higher quality meats or main dish items, less processed items, expanded food choices, etc.; food service equipment maintenance/replacement; encouraging staff participation in the Indiana School Nutrition Association and professional development opportunities; and hiring additional staff to help meet new meal pattern and Federal Requirements”.
According to Burnham, the prices will continue with student breakfast at $1.50; K-6 lunch, $1.85; 7-12 lunch, $1.95; adult breakfast, $1.50; and adult lunch, 2.75. The adult price includes all staff and other adults who may be visiting.
Carol Anders Correspondent
