The Edmonds School District’s meal program is changing its policy regarding IOUs starting Monday, May 17.

“No students will be able to incur additional debt or go into a negative balance by any amount,” the district said in an email reminder sent Friday. “Students will be able to pay by cash, check or use prepaid accounts to purchase meals.  All students receiving free or reduced-price meals will continue to receive those meals, but additional items beyond what is provided by that program cannot be charged, such as an additional milk unless paid for in cash.”

Because the Food Service Department operates independently of the district’s General Fund, it needs to balance its budget. Officials hope that this change will encourage parents to make payments for outstanding meal balances by the last day of school, June 21. “We are very sensitive to keeping this change from impacting students and the ability for them to receive a meal,” said Barbara Lloyd, Food Service Director.  “It is a delicate balance, yet not something we can ignore. Our bottom line needs to balance as well.”

“Safety Net” meals — a nutritionally balanced sack meal — will continue to be made available to students who can’t pay for their lunches.