"Eating school lunch costs an extra twenty five cents this year. School officials say that's the largest increase they have seen in awhile and parents are hoping it doesn't continue to rise so rapidly."

Having a meal in the school cafeteria costs more because gas and food costs have gone up. Joann Donley says she expected it.

"There was no doubt in my mind that it would go up but I do not mind paying the extra price. I know my children are getting a good solid meal here.  I know it's something they need to make it through the school day.

But the higher meal cost will have an effect.

"I've got to pinch my pennies and watch my budget a little closer."

Joann is not the only one watching her budget. The school district is looking at it's bottom line as well.

We'll just have to continue to keep an eye on it. If the cost of gas and fuel continues to rise we'll have to look at our lunch prices and see if our budget numbers come out," says Laura Schuster, Groton School Superintendent.

Parents hope those numbers work out in their favor or they may have to make some changes.

"I probably will let them have a sack lunch now. Prior years I wouldn't. I was pretty adamant about them having a warm meal here at school."