Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the Food Services Program:
How much do meals cost?
For the 2025-2026 school year, meal prices are as follows:
O.H. Somers Elementary:
Breakfast: $2.25
Lunch: $3.50
Jr./Sr. High School:
Breakfast: $2.50
Lunch: $4.00
Milk (only):
$0.75
Staff/Adults:
$4.50
Why are meal prices increasing?
Each year, school districts must follow a state-mandated formula to determine meal price thresholds. The Mogadore Local School District is currently below the state-recommended price and must increase prices to remain compliant. Additionally, rising grocery costs have contributed to the price increase.
If my child received free/reduced meals last year, will they still qualify this year?
Yes and no. Students who received meal benefits last school year have a 30-day grace period at the beginning of the new school year, during which their previous meal status remains in place. After that period, students will transition to full-pay status unless they are directly certified or a new application is completed and approved.
Why does my child owe money if they receive free meals?
There are a few reasons why a student with free meal benefits may have a balance due:
1. Free meal status does not erase any previous meal debt.
2. Only one reimbursable breakfast and one reimbursable lunch per day are free. Additional items—such as a la carte purchases, extra entrées, or milk alone—are not covered.
What’s the difference between free and reduced meal status?
For the past few years, the state has allowed students on reduced status to eat for free. However, when the school submits meal reimbursements to the state, reduced-status meals are not claimed under the free meal category, resulting in a lower reimbursement amount. Additionally, students on free meal status qualify for waived instructional fees, whereas reduced-status students do not.
What should I do if my child has food allergies or medical dietary needs?
To ensure our food service staff can properly accommodate your child’s food allergies or medical dietary needs, a Special Diet Accommodation Form must be completed by both a parent/guardian and a licensed physician. To request a copy of this form, please contact Krysten Dannemiller at mo_crew@mogadore.net or call 330-628-7254.
Please note: Mogadore Local Schools are not required to accommodate dietary requests that are not considered a disability, such as those based on religious beliefs, moral convictions, or personal preferences.
How can I add money to my child’s lunch account?
You have two options to add funds:
1. Pay Schools Central App – Download the app, create an account, and link your child.
2. Cash or Check – Send money to the school in a clearly marked envelope with:
- Your child’s name
- “Lunch Account Money”
- Your child’s grade level
Your child can give the envelope to their teacher or the kitchen staff.
How will I know if my child has a low lunch balance?
Through the Pay Schools Central App, you can set up notifications to alert you when your child's balance is low.
Can I view my child’s meal activity?
Yes! The Pay Schools Central App allows you to track daily meal purchases and verify any payments made to your child’s account.
Visit the Food Services page for more information: https://www.mogadore.net/page/foodservices