Over the past year, the cost of food, supplies and operational expenses associated with providing nutritious meals to students in the Cheatham County School District has increased significantly. Like many school districts across the nation, our district has experienced higher costs for the ingredients and products used in our breakfast and lunch programs.
To continue offering high-quality, healthy meals that meet federal nutrition standards, our district will implement a modest increase in student breakfast and lunch prices beginning with the 2026-2027 school year. There will also be a small increase for staff and visiting adults.
New Meal Prices:
• Student Breakfast, $3
• Student Lunch, $4
• Adult Breakfast, $4
• Adult Lunch, $6
• Holiday Breakfast, $5
• Holiday Lunch, $7
This decision was not made lightly. Our School Nutrition Department carefully reviews meal program finances each year and works diligently to manage costs while maintaining the quality and variety of meals served to our students. There has not been an increase in meal costs in four years.
Families who may qualify for free or reduced-price meals are encouraged to complete a meal benefits application. Information about eligibility requirements and application procedures can be found on our website or by contacting your child's school. If your household qualifies, your child may be eligible for meals at no charge or at a reduced rate of .30 cents for breakfast and .40 cents for lunch.
Only one household application is required for the free and reduced-price meal program for all students attending schools in our district. Families can apply for benefits at any point throughout the school year, even if circumstances change later on.
We remain committed to serving nutritious, appealing meals that support student health, learning, and success. We appreciate your understanding and continued support as we work to provide the best possible services for our students.