May 1, 2026
Dear North Kingstown School Department Families,
I am writing to provide advance notice of a school lunch price adjustment that will take effect beginning in the 2026–27 school year, following the official approval of the District budget. We wanted to share this information as early as possible so families have time to plan ahead.
Beginning in the 2026–27 school year, the price of school lunch for paid meals will increase by $0.30. The price of breakfast will remain unchanged, and eligibility and pricing for free and reduced-price meals will not change. We understand that any increase in cost can impact families, and this decision was not made lightly. We also know that access to healthy, balanced meals supports student well-being, focus, and academic performance, and we remain committed to providing high-quality nutrition for our students each day.
Meal prices in our schools have not increased in six years, despite rising food and supply costs. School meal programs are required to be financially self-supporting and are partially funded through federal reimbursement rates set by the USDA. As a result, meal pricing must periodically be adjusted to keep pace with actual costs, and lunch prices vary across districts in Rhode Island.
As shared previously, the District will also be covering credit card processing fees for meal payments beginning May 1, 2026 through the 2026–27 school year until funds are spent. This step is made possible through a one-time surplus spend-down and is intended to provide some short-term relief for families. While we are glad to offer this support, it is separate from the ongoing costs of providing meals. The adjustment to lunch pricing reflects the continued increase in food and supply costs needed to sustain the program over time.
In North Kingstown, we work to manage costs carefully. The District operates its own in-house child nutrition service program, which allows us to focus on cost control, meal quality, and local purchasing whenever possible. We also participate in a regional consortium to secure competitive pricing and prioritize fresh, locally sourced fruits and vegetables. The District continues to pursue federal and state reimbursement opportunities and cost-saving measures whenever possible to help keep meal prices as affordable as possible for families.
To help minimize the impact on families, the District chose to adjust only the lunch price, while keeping breakfast pricing unchanged. We remain committed to ensuring that all students have access to healthy meals each day. Families who may qualify for free or reduced-price meals are encouraged to apply at any time, and families seeking additional support are encouraged to contact the District’s Child Nutrition Department to learn more about available resources.
We are helping where we can in the short-term while working to responsibly manage long-term costs. The District will continue to monitor costs carefully and does not anticipate additional changes at this time. We appreciate your understanding and continued partnership.
Sincerely,
Kenneth Duva, Ed. D.
Superintendent of Schools