School districts across Callaway and Cole counties are seeing increases in the number of students enrolling in free and reduced lunch programs, and most are attributing it to the effects of the economy on families.
For Fulton, North Callaway, South Callaway, New Bloomfield, Russellville and Eugene schools, the increased participation from last year is slight. But, the increase becomes more significant over the last five years.
Jefferson City Public Schools will report its officials numbers to the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education on Wednesday, which will be available after that time. Blair Oaks R-2 is reporting only a small increase.