Photo: Anna Mitchell

Words: Miranda Mason

On September 24, 2013, a new Point of Sale (POS) system was put into place for the purchasing of school lunches at Centennial High School. Use of the new POS system is encouraged, but cash will still be accepted for daily purchases, according to the letter mailed home to students from the HCPSS Food and Nutrition Service.

Students must memorize a six-digit code in order to pay using the POS system. Parents must electronically load money into their children’s accounts before they can be used to purchase a school lunch, breakfast or an a la carte item. Money can be added to students’ POS accounts by going to www.schoolpaymentsolutions.com, or directly giving cash to a school cashier.

According to Cafeteria Manager, Nancy Myers, the implementation of the POS system caused some problems at first, but the ease of use of the system is improving.

“The first day they didn’t know their numbers. Yesterday was better,” said Myers. “I’m hoping tomorrow will be even better.”

For students on a prepaid lunch plan, the remaining funds from that plan will automatically be transferred into their POS account, but it will only be available for use if the student is purchasing breakfast or lunch. As of September 24th all prepaid installment plans will be cancelled.