ST. JOHN | Breakfast and lunch prices for Lake Central schools will be increasing for the 2007-08 school year but remain competitive with other school corporations, administrators said.

"Our lunch prices are favorable when compared to other school districts within the region," said Tony Arini, director of instruction. "We fall somewhere in the middle."

Food and operating costs have both increased as well as delivery charges, the result of higher fuel costs. Food prices are expected to increase by 3.5 percent and milk prices by 9 percent.

Additionally, Clark Middle School will have to be staffed with food service personnel at a cost of $103,000.

Lunch and breakfasts will increase 10 cents at all levels. Milk will increase five cents to 40 cents.

Cafeteria prices for breakfast will be $1.10 for elementary school students, $1.20 for middle and high school students and $1.35 for adults. Lunch prices will be $1.70 for elementary school students, $1.95 for middle and high school students and $2.70 for adults.

Holly Slavens, director of food and nutrition services, said there are more students eating in the cafeteria and many are making healthier choices.

"I really think there's a change in the attitudes of the parents and the kids," she said. "It's a different generation, and they see the benefits of a good diet."

Board Secretary Nancy Gray said the food served is great.

"You do a lot with a little, and it's still the best deal in town," she said.