The Finance Committee Meeting for Taos Municipal Schools on March 8, 2025, focused primarily on the district's food service program, which is currently facing a significant financial deficit. The meeting began with a review of the food service revenues and expenditures, revealing a troubling shortfall of approximately $737,000. The discussion highlighted the need for a thorough analysis of the factors contributing to this deficit, including student participation rates and operational efficiencies.

The financial report indicated that the district had received $649,005.35 in revenue, with $195,000 attributed to prior year revenue. However, the projected revenue for the remaining months of the school year is estimated at only $1,006,000, which is insufficient to cover current expenditures. The committee acknowledged that the food service program is operating at a loss and emphasized the urgency of addressing the underlying issues.

Key concerns raised included the scheduling of lunch periods at the high school, which may not provide enough time for students to eat. The current block schedule limits the number of students who can be served during lunch, leading to lower participation rates. Suggestions were made to explore options for a tiered lunch schedule to improve efficiency and student access to meals.

Christina Duran, the student nutrition program supervisor, reported that previous revenue-generating activities had ceased due to staffing shortages and low student participation, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. The committee discussed the potential impact of staffing changes and legislative salary increases on the budget, noting that higher salaries could be contributing to the financial strain.

The meeting also touched on the importance of student feedback regarding meal preferences, with many students expressing a desire for more diverse and appealing food options. Duran indicated that efforts would be made to incorporate student suggestions into future meal planning.

In conclusion, the committee recognized the need for immediate action to stabilize the food service program and prevent further financial losses. Plans for further analysis and potential adjustments to lunch schedules were discussed, with a commitment to explore creative solutions, including the involvement of community volunteers to support the program. The meeting underscored the importance of ensuring that students have adequate access to nutritious meals to support their health and academic performance.