Warwick Public Schools had said it would serve sunflower butter and jelly sandwiches to students whose families are in arrears beginning Monday, sparking a public backlash and upsetting the mayor, who asked the school committee to reconsider. The district said it was owed about $77,000 for lunches and couldn't absorb more debt.
School Committee Chairwoman Karen Bachus said on Facebook that committee members have now recommended that students get their choice of lunch regardless of their account status. About 1,650 students owed money as of last Friday. About 70 percent of those students are not enrolled in the program for free or reduced price lunches, according to Bachus.
This week, about $14,000 was collected from families with outstanding balances after the cold sandwich policy was announced, Bachus said. She said they're seeking to find a balance between being fiscally responsible and ensuring that all students get a healthy, nutritious lunch.
