District 15 lunch prices rising

Lunch will cost more in the 2017-18 academic season at Palatine Township Elementary District 15.

Elementary school students will pay $2.60 for lunch, compared with last year's $2.50. Junior high students will pay $2.70 instead of $2.60.

The price hike is due to requirements of the federal Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010, officials said. The act requires schools to increase pricing annually to minimize the difference between the cost of a paid lunch and the federal reimbursement received for a free lunch for those who qualify.

"School meals are a great bargain, serving students healthy whole grains, trans-fat free items, fresh fruits and vegetables, and a selection of entrees daily," said Bobbie Desprat, District 15's school nutrition services director.