UPDATE: The Churchill County School Board has just announced new school meal prices for the upcoming term, setting breakfast at $2 and varying lunch prices from $3.25 at elementary schools to $4 at Churchill County High School. This decision was made during a meeting on July 24 and marks the first meal price increase since 2020.
The board’s unanimous vote reflects a significant moment for parents and students, particularly as many families continue to navigate financial challenges. Amber Scholl, director of dining services at Chartwells, expressed gratitude to the board for keeping the increase minimal, stating, “I think that small of an increase in a five-year increment will be very pleasing to most of the public.”
Scholl also provided an overview of the food service program, emphasizing the importance of clear communication regarding meal applications for families who may have recently faced financial changes. “We need to know where our community stands and where help is needed for these children,” she said, highlighting the urgency of the matter.
Upcoming back-to-school events will feature Chartwells catering, with plans to provide computer assistance for free and reduced meal applications at all locations. In addition, students can look forward to exciting improvements in school cafeterias, including new stainless steel shelving and countertops, with cosmetic updates scheduled for both the middle school and Northside cafeterias.
In a noteworthy development for culinary engagement, celebrity chef Jonathon Zaragoza will return to the high school in October as part of Chartwell’s “Global Eats” program. Monthly themed cooking lessons and events are also set to engage students, with a special focus on how food impacts mood and learning behaviors through the “Mood Boost” program at Numa.
However, the board also faced pressing concerns regarding a recent pause by the U.S. Department of Education on $203,468.83 in approved grant funding. Superintendent Derild Parsons reported that this funding freeze affects critical initiatives, including new hire incentives and essential summer school funding. “The paused funds were designated for several critical initiatives,” he noted, bringing attention to the potential impact on educational support.
As the state of Nevada, alongside 22 other states, pursues the release of these funds, the timeline for resolution remains uncertain, with expectations that it could take months. In the meantime, the district is exploring temporary measures to manage the impact, with Parsons assuring that the plan is still being refined.
Parents and community members are encouraged to stay informed, with live streams of school board meetings available on the YouTube channel “ChurchillCSDBoardMeetings.” The next regular meeting is scheduled for August 27 at 5:30 p.m. at the District Office located at 690 S. Maine St.
This is a developing story that will continue to impact families and students across Churchill County. Stay tuned for further updates as new information becomes available.
