Vidor ISD raises adult lunch price to meet USDA/TDA cost rules; breakfast unchanged
Summary
The board approved a $0.25 increase in adult lunch prices to $5.25 to comply with USDA and Texas Department of Agriculture cost-recovery guidelines; adult breakfast remains $3.50.
The Vidor Independent School District Board of Trustees voted 7—0 on Aug. 19 to raise the adult lunch price from $5.00 to $5.25 while leaving adult breakfast at $3.50.
District nutrition staff explained the change is driven by USDA and Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) guidance that adult-meal prices must cover the program—s full food and supply costs, including the value of USDA commodity foods. Because adult meals are not reimbursable like student meals, the district uses TDA—s adult-meal calculator worksheet to determine the minimum price needed to remain compliant and avoid absorbing additional program costs.
The nutrition director said the adjustment is not intended to generate profit but to ensure the sustainability of the program. "This adjustment is not intended to generate profit. It's simply to ensure the sustainability of our program and compliance with the USDA and TDA guidelines," the presenter said.
Discussion vs. decision - Discussion: Staff summarized cost-calculation methodology and compared neighboring districts—prices. - Direction/Assignment: None beyond implementing the new adult-lunch price and updating relevant communications and point-of-sale systems. - Formal action: Motion to increase adult lunch price carried 7—0.
Ending note Staff said they would update principals and the public and routinely monitor actual costs to determine whether further adjustments are necessary.
