SALINE, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Saline Area Schools hiked the costs of providing meals to its students by between 27% to 38%, costs that will now be picked up by taxpayers since the state Legislature funded free meals for all students in 2025-26.

The district alerted the school board of the increased costs in case the state Legislature didn’t provide funding for free meals. The state budget signed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer included $201.6 million to again provide free meals in 2025-26.

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But those costs are growing.

Saline Area Schools said in a Sept. 30 memo that elementary meals were increasing from $2.75 to $3.50, middle school meals were increasing from $3.25 to $4.50 and high school meals were increasing from $3.25 to $4.50.

The Sept. 30 memo from the director of meal services said the students would bear the cost increases if the state Legislature didn’t include money for free meals in the budget.

“Our current meal prices have remained unchanged for several years. During that time, costs related to food, labor, and supplies have increased significantly,” the memo stated. “To continue operating the Food Service Program in compliance with state and federal requirements, while maintaining financial sustainability, we would be recommending adjustments to our meal prices. These recommended increases are consistent with federal guidelines and aligned with comparable districts in our region. They are necessary to cover rising operating costs, ensure high-quality meals for students, and maintain compliance with USDA requirements.”