To determine the correct inequality that describes the most number of Combo B meals the teacher can purchase with a budget of up to $180, let \( x \) represent the number of Combo B meals purchased. The cost of each Combo B meal is $8.99.
The inequality can be set up as follows:
\[ 8.99x \leq 180 \]
This means that the cost of \( x \) Combo B meals should be less than or equal to $180.
Therefore, the correct answer is:
C: \( 8.99x \leq 180 \)