The Center for Ecoliteracy and the School Nutrition Association surveyed more than 140 school districts across California in the fall of 2020. Findings from these surveys show that budget deficits for school nutrition programs are worsening. This is what we found:
- Net losses: 84% of California school districts are projecting a net loss for the 2020–21 school year.
- Reserves to cover losses: Only 18% of school districts projecting a net loss for 2020–21 will have enough in reserve to cover these losses.
- Estimated statewide deficit: The estimated statewide deficit for 2020–21 is -$558 million.
To find out more, see the Report: COVID-19 Increases School Meal Budget Deficits in California.