Davidson Co. schools struggle to pay lunch debts

LEXINGTON, NC (AP) — Davidson County students who repeatedly
forget their lunch money may wind up with a cold sandwich rather
than a hot meal.

WGHP-TV reported Thursday that the Davidson County Board of
Education hopes to avoid unpaid lunch fees, which last year totaled
$46,000.

Schools spokeswoman Brittany Benge says covering such debt means
less money for salaries and school equipment.

Board members are considering nightly phone calls to parents who
are more than $11 behind. Cafeterias also would serve
debtor-students a modified lunch, consisting mainly of a peanut
butter and jelly sandwich.

When a student’s unpaid lunch fees approach $40, the account
would be referred to a collection agency.

Benge says anyone who can’t afford the $2.50 meals can sign up
for the state’s free- and reduced-price lunch program.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)