The Hamilton Southeastern School Board approved an increase in school lunch prices, but the board members will be quick to tell you the increase was required by the federal government – it was not their decision.

Administrators say the increase will equate to a 10 cent increase for all paid lunch prices. School officials warn that another increase will likely be needed for the next school year.

Failure of the board to comply with the national paid lunch equity requirements would jeopardize Hamilton Southeastern Schools participation in the National School Lunch Program which would ultimately eliminate the reimbursement dollars received from the federal Department of Education.

In other school board activity Wednesday night:

–Gave 1st reading approval to a change in tobacco policy.  The revised version prohibits e-cigarettes from HSE schools and school grounds.  Final approval will come at a future board session.

–Approved several items relating to building issues and land transfers.

–Received updates from the school library media specialists, and S.P.O.R.T.S. Executive Director Lynda Carlino.