Fort Mill School District Raises Meal Prices for 2025-2026 School Year

The Fort Mill School District approved an increase in meal prices for the 2025-2026 academic year, marking the first time costs have risen since 2020. The decision, approved earlier this year by the school board, is a direct response to rising food, supply, and labor costs.

The new prices, which took effect this week with the start of the school year, are as follows:

• Breakfast: The price for all students will increase by 50 cents, from $1.35 to $1.85.
• Elementary School Lunch: The price will increase by 75 cents, from $2.25 to $3.00.
• Middle and High School Lunch: The price will increase by 75 cents, from $3.00 to $3.75.

These changes will not impact students who qualify for the free and reduced-price meal program. The increases are projected to generate over $971,000 in revenue, which will help address a budget shortfall of more than $1 million from the previous school year.

According to district officials, even with the new prices, school meals remain a good value for families, as they are a complete and nutritious option that is difficult to find at a comparable price at local restaurants or grocery stores. They emphasized that the district’s student nutrition department works to provide balanced meals that meet federal guidelines.

The price adjustments come as school districts nationwide grapple with increased operational costs while maintaining federally mandated nutrition standards for student meals. Families can apply for the free and reduced meal program through the district’s website.