Lunch and breakfast prices at Howard County public schools will remain the same next school year.

After three consecutive years of 25-cent increases, school officials decided to keep meal prices steady for the 2009-2010 school year.

Elementary lunch will cost $2.50, while lunches at middle and high schools will cost $3. The "signature" and "coaches corner" lunch options at high schools will cost $3.75. The price of breakfast at all schools will be $1.75.

The decision to maintain current prices was based, in part, on "a review of the current and projected financial condition of the food service program," and took into account the impact the poor economy has had on many families, according to a report reviewed by the Board of Education June 11.

According to the report, participation in Howard's school meals program decreased by 1,228 students during the 2008-2009 school year and close to 2,500 students over the past three fiscal years.

"Keeping prices stable may increase participation which would increase revenue," the report states.

Meal program directors anticipate a modest increase in the price of food from suppliers, and note salary increases for cafeteria workers will be substantially less in the coming year than in the two previous years.

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