Caddo is the only school district to announce the increase, although other area school systems are looking at doing the same because of rising food prices.

Meal prices this coming school year in Caddo Parish will be $1.50 for elementary students, and $1.75 for middle- and high school students.

Deborah Harris, the nutritionist for Caddo schools, said the district is considering cutting back on the number of entree choices available each day because of rising food prices. Rice, for example, costs more than twice what it did a year ago, Harris said.

School meals must meet specified nutritional standards. They consist of two ounces of meat, a starch such as rice or noodles, a vegetable, dessert, milk and bread.